Manchester United are reportedly edging closer to parting ways with manager Michael Carrick following a disastrous start to the 2026-27 Premier League season.

The former midfielder's future at Old Trafford is hanging in the balance, with the club hierarchy conducting a comprehensive review during the November international break.

According to multiple reports in England, United's director of football Jason Wilcox is leading discussions alongside chief executive Omar Berrada to determine whether Carrick should continue. Any recommendation to dismiss the 45-year-old would require approval from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

The Red Devils currently occupy 18th place in the Premier League standings, having registered just one league victory this season. Their latest setback came in Sunday's dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, where late goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Patrick Dorgu rescued a point.

Despite showing resilience against Villa and securing a thrilling 3-2 Champions League comeback victory over Roma, United's domestic struggles have intensified pressure on Carrick.

Who Could Replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United?

Several high-profile managers have reportedly emerged as potential successors, including Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Unai Emery.

Pochettino, currently associated with the United States national team, is reportedly open to considering the Old Trafford position if Carrick departs. However, no formal agreement with any potential replacement has been announced.

Landing Emery will be a harder job for the Red Devils as the Spaniard is already in talks with Aston Villa for a new contract. Emery has transformed the Midlands club since his arrival and was Carrick's latest opponent in their 4-4 stalemate.

Eddie Howe is a viable option as he continues to remain unemployed since leaving Newcastle United in the summer. Nagelsmann has also been in a hot prospect in the market, who they could turn to.

Antonio Conte has also been uttered in some media reports, but the Italian's arrival at Old Trafford, for now, seems a far-fetched theory.

United are also understood to be reluctant to appoint another interim manager, preferring a permanent solution should they decide to make a change.

Carrick, meanwhile, remains determined to turn things around and has publicly expressed confidence in his ability to improve results. The international break offers United's decision-makers an opportunity to assess their options before a crucial Premier League encounter against Liverpool on November 22.

Story first published: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 8:14 [IST]

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