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According to a report by London Evening Standard on Friday November 6, 2026, Manchester United could lose recruitment director Christopher Vivell to Bayern Munich, potentially affecting their search for Michael Carrick’s replacement if the current head coach is dismissed.
The German club are reportedly interested in bringing Vivell back to the Bundesliga after identifying him as a suitable candidate for their vacant scouting position.
Carrick has faced growing pressure following a disappointing run of results, with United managing just one victory in 10 matches across all competitions since late August. However, the Red Devils ended their nine-game winless streak on Tuesday after producing a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Roma in the Champions League.
The result could give Carrick some breathing space after previously suffering heavy defeats against Como and Bournemouth. United lost those encounters 4-1 and 3-0 respectively, but the club's hierarchy decided against immediately dismissing him.
Their subsequent 2-0 defeat against Chelsea increased the pressure on the head coach. United are now expected to reassess his position around the November international break, following Sunday's Premier League meeting with Aston Villa.
Should the club decide to make a managerial change, Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe and Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler are reportedly among the leading candidates being considered.
Nagelsmann could have an advantage because of his previous working relationship with Vivell at RB Leipzig. The former Bayern Munich and Germany manager is understood to have an ally in United's recruitment director, who could influence the club's decision.
However, Bayern's reported interest in Vivell could complicate matters. According to German publication Bild, the Bundesliga champions want him to replace Nils Schmadtke, whose contract as their head of scouting was terminated three days ago.
Vivell previously worked at Chelsea before joining United. A return to Germany could weaken Nagelsmann's chances of becoming the next manager at Old Trafford.