Manchester United sporting director Jason Wilcox has emerged as a "confirmed admirer" of Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler, as the Old Trafford hierarchy weighs up a definitive decision regarding Michael Carrick’s future in the dugout.

Following a disastrous opening stretch to the Premier League campaign—yielding a meager six points from six games—and a 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, internal pressure on Carrick has escalated significantly.

While senior figures at Manchester United continue to publicly stand by Carrick for upcoming away fixtures against Leeds United and Como, key decision-makers have active contingency plans in motion.

Wilcox has consistently brought 33-year-old Hurzeler into high-level recruitment discussions, admiring the young tactician's tactical fluidity, high-pressing setup, and proven track record in the English top flight with Brighton.

However, a potential boardroom disagreement exists within Old Trafford's executive structure. Director of recruitment Christopher Vivell is reportedly advocating for Germany national team manager Julian Nagelsmann as his preferred candidate, while former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte remains another available option under consideration by the board.

For now, Brighton remain calm regarding interest in their manager, having extended Hurzeler's contract and backed his long-term project on the South Coast.

Should Manchester United decide to sever ties with Carrick, closing a deal for Hurzeler would require substantial financial compensation, but Wilcox views the German prodigy as the strategic architect capable of restoring Old Trafford to elite domestic stability.

What are your thoughts about this article? Share your reactions in the comment section and don't forget to share and follow for more updates.

https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-united/fabian-hurzeler-united-next-manager-michael-carrick-sack-latest