According to a report by GiveMeSport on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Manchester United are facing renewed criticism over their decision to retain Michael Carrick as manager, with Marco Silva emerging as a potential alternative who could have provided greater stability and potentially helped the club avoid the costs of another managerial change.

Manchester United's disappointing start to the Premier League campaign has intensified scrutiny of the club's managerial decisions, particularly as Carrick struggles to deliver consistent results.

The Red Devils have reportedly recorded just one victory in their opening league fixtures, raising concerns about their performances and the decision to continue with the former midfielder in charge. Their Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid has further increased the pressure ahead of their difficult trip to Leeds United.

Although Carrick enjoyed an impressive spell last season, his recent struggles have renewed discussions about Manchester United's tendency to appoint former players in the hope of restoring the club's former glory. Previous appointments, including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, have fuelled questions about whether familiarity with the club is enough to guarantee success.

Silva was reportedly among the managers Manchester United could have considered during the summer transfer window. The Portuguese coach left Fulham after an encouraging spell in the Premier League before taking charge of Benfica, where he has reportedly made a promising start.

The 49-year-old brings considerable managerial experience from his time with several English clubs, including Fulham, Everton, Watford and Hull City. His familiarity with English football could have made him an attractive candidate for Manchester United as they sought tactical consistency and improved results.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola previously praised Silva's coaching abilities, expressing confidence that he would become one of football's leading managers.

“Marco is one of the top, top, top managers I face. Destined to be one of the top in a few years for sure,” Guardiola said in February.

According to the report, Silva won 12 of his first 16 matches at Benfica, suffering only two defeats during that period. His early results have strengthened arguments that Manchester United may have overlooked a credible candidate when deciding on their managerial appointment.

Meanwhile, Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has reportedly emerged as another potential option if United decide to part ways with Carrick.

Replacing the current manager could expose the club to additional compensation payments and recruitment costs. However, Silva's performances elsewhere do not guarantee that he would have achieved similar success at Old Trafford, leaving Manchester United's decision a subject of ongoing debate.