According to a report by Manchesterevening News on Monday October 26, 2026, Eddie Howe is reportedly willing to discuss becoming Manchester United’s next manager despite leaving Newcastle United to take a break, with Michael Carrick increasingly expected to lose his position.

Howe departed Newcastle on July 30 after almost five years in charge, explaining that he needed time to reflect, recharge and step away from management following an emotionally demanding period at the club.

In his departure statement, Howe said: “After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.”

During his Newcastle tenure, the 48-year-old ended the club’s lengthy wait for silverware by winning the League Cup. He also guided the Magpies into the Champions League on two occasions, strengthening his reputation.

According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox has identified Howe as his leading candidate to replace Carrick. Reports also suggest the former Newcastle manager has become the favourite for the position.

Carrick’s future has come under serious pressure following United’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth, which deepened concerns about the team’s performances and overall direction this season.

Sky Sports reports that Howe is interested in speaking with United about the managerial vacancy, despite previously explaining his desire to take time away from football and restore his energy.

Former United sporting director Dan Ashworth initially recommended Howe to the club. Wilcox is now pursuing the experienced Premier League coach as the hierarchy considers possible replacements for Carrick.

Howe and Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann are reportedly the leading candidates. United recruitment director Christopher Vivell is understood to favour Nagelsmann, while co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to consider Wilcox’s preference for Howe.

If appointed, Howe could reportedly request four reinforcements: a centre-back, left-back, left winger and centre-forward. Such additions would help him reshape the squad and address areas requiring improvement.

Former Liverpool defender and television pundit Jamie Carragher has also called for Carrick’s dismissal following the Bournemouth defeat. He argued that United must act quickly rather than allow the situation to deteriorate further.

Carragher said: “Manchester United need to make that change tonight. It’s getting to the stage where it’s not nice to see watching Michael Carrick.”

He added that supporters had backed Carrick because of his importance to the club, rather than simply because he occupied the managerial position.

Carragher also criticised United’s players, arguing that their achievements fell short of previous generations. He pointed out that the club were sitting 16th in the Premier League, insisting such a position was unacceptable for an institution of United’s stature.

The pundit believes replacing Carrick would benefit both Manchester United and the manager himself, as the club continues considering its next move amid mounting pressure.