According to a report by Football Transfer on Monday October 26, 2026, Eddie Howe has emerged as the favourite to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United following the under-pressure manager’s damaging 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth, which intensified uncertainty surrounding his future at Old Trafford.

United are expected to part ways with Carrick this week after eight consecutive matches without victory, with several senior players reportedly expressing concerns about the club’s situation and performances during this difficult period.

The club has already contacted potential replacements, with Howe reportedly the preferred candidate of sporting director Jason Wilcox. The former Newcastle manager left St James’ Park in July and could arrive before United face Chelsea next weekend.

Senne Lammens could remain Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper despite recent struggles, including a costly mistake against Bournemouth. At right-back, Howe might prefer Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui instead of continuing with centre-back Leny Yoro in that position.

Dalot has recently played at left-back because Luke Shaw remains unavailable. However, Shaw is expected to reclaim his natural position once fit, as United currently lack another specialist left-back capable of replacing the England international.

At centre-back, Howe could rely on Harry Maguire’s leadership, experience and aerial ability, qualities he previously valued in Newcastle defender Dan Burn. Yoro could partner Maguire, with his physical attributes potentially giving him an advantage over Lisandro Martinez.

Midfield could experience significant changes, with Carlos Baleba potentially preferred to Youri Tielemans in the defensive midfield role. Howe traditionally values athletic, physically strong players who can cover ground and provide energy across the pitch.

Although Bruno Fernandes performs best as an attacking midfielder, Howe’s preferred 4-3-3 formation could see the United captain operate as a number eight, supported by Baleba and Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield.

Bryan Mbeumo could become a central figure in Howe’s attack, having previously been one of his leading transfer targets at Newcastle. The Cameroonian could provide an attacking threat even when deployed on the wing.

Matheus Cunha may also become a regular starter because Howe wanted the Brazilian at Newcastle. Marcus Rashford could struggle for opportunities unless he improves his defensive contribution and work rate when United do not possess the ball.

Benjamin Sesko could be among the biggest beneficiaries of Howe’s potential appointment after previously rejecting Newcastle to join Manchester United. However, his current injury might give Joshua Zirkzee an opportunity to impress the new manager.

Howe’s experience using a powerful centre-forward, including Alexander Isak during his Newcastle tenure, could influence his attacking decisions. Sesko’s fitness will therefore be important when determining whether he leads United’s frontline.

Man Utd’s ideal starting XI under Eddie Howe

GK: Senne Lammens

RB: Diogo Dalot

CB: Harry Maguire

CB: Leny Yoro

LB: Luke Shaw

DM: Carlos Baleba

CM: Kobbie Mainoo

CM: Bruno Fernandes

RW: Bryan Mbeumo

ST: Benjamin Sesko

LW: Matheus Cunha