Como manager Cesc Fabregas has dismissed speculation linking him with the Manchester United job, insisting it is disrespectful to discuss replacing Michael Carrick while he remains in charge.

Fabregas will come up against Carrick on Wednesday evening when Como host United in the Champions League, with the visitors desperate to end a six-match winless run.

The former Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder was asked during his pre-match press conference whether he would consider taking over at Old Trafford.

However, he refused to entertain the suggestion and instead defended his opposite number.

“I won’t answer that question because I think that’s not a very nice question,” Fabregas said on Tuesday.

“I don’t think that shows enough respect to a great footballer and manager like Michael Carrick at the helm of a wonderful Manchester United side.

“Manchester United is a historical club I know very, very well,” he continued.

“We have so much respect for who they are, for what they do, because they have incredible players.

“I know Steve Holland very well because I worked with him for years at Chelsea and I know Michael has done really well in previous clubs as well.

“Last year he did really well bringing Manchester United back to where they belong, which is the Champions League, for the first time in many years, so it’s not all bad. It’s an honour to host them for the first time in our history.”

While United arrive in Italy struggling for form, Como have enjoyed an encouraging start to their domestic campaign.

Fabregas’ side sit fifth in Serie A and head into Wednesday’s European encounter following a 3-1 win over Fiorentina on Sunday.