Former France manager Didier Deschamps has reportedly turned down an approach from Manchester United because he is interested in becoming the next head coach of Real Madrid. According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, November 7, 2026, the 58-year-old is considering a return to club management but is not keen on taking charge of the Premier League side at Old Trafford.

The development comes as United assess their managerial options amid growing uncertainty over Michael Carrick’s position. The former Middlesbrough boss has faced mounting criticism following a disappointing start to the campaign, with the club’s hierarchy reportedly considering a change in leadership.

According to a report by Santi Aouna, United have begun exploring possible replacements as they look for a manager capable of improving the team’s performances. Carrick was reportedly close to losing his job last week but was given more time to address the situation. However, the defeat to Chelsea has intensified concerns about his future.

Several prominent coaches have reportedly emerged as possible candidates. Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte are among the names United have considered while assessing who could lead the club through its current difficulties.

Deschamps was also linked with the vacancy, but reports from France indicate that he has rejected the opportunity. His decision is reportedly connected to his ambition to manage Real Madrid, where he is monitoring developments surrounding José Mourinho.

The Portuguese coach has reportedly faced questions about his position despite overseeing an impressive run of eight consecutive victories in all competitions. That sequence includes successes against Barcelona, Villarreal, AS Roma, Sevilla and RB Leipzig, suggesting that Madrid have made considerable progress under his leadership.

Nevertheless, Mourinho’s position is said to remain a subject of discussion, with the club’s league standing and performances continuing to attract attention. Deschamps is reportedly keeping track of the situation in the hope that an opening could eventually become available at the Santiago Bernabéu.

His preference for Madrid appears to have influenced his response to United’s approach. Rather than committing himself to another Premier League project, the Frenchman is understood to be waiting for a potential opportunity with the Spanish giants. However, there is no indication that Real Madrid have formally approached him or decided to make a managerial change.

Deschamps would bring considerable experience to any club considering his appointment. He guided France to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title in Russia and led the national team to the final of the 2022 tournament in Qatar. His achievements at international level have established him as one of the most experienced coaches available for a return to club football.

For Manchester United, the reported rejection represents another complication as they consider alternatives to Carrick. The club must continue evaluating candidates while deciding whether its current manager can improve results. Deschamps, meanwhile, appears more interested in waiting for developments in Madrid than accepting the challenge at Old Trafford.