According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday November 5, 2026, Manchester United have decided against appointing another interim manager if Michael Carrick is dismissed as head coach amid growing uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford.

According to reports, the Red Devils have a contingency plan in place should the club's hierarchy decide to relieve the former England international of his duties.

Carrick has come under serious pressure in recent weeks following a disappointing run of results that saw Manchester United go nine consecutive matches without a victory in all competitions.

The former midfielder was reportedly close to losing his job after United suffered heavy defeats against Como and Bournemouth a fortnight ago.

However, the club decided to retain him, giving him an opportunity to turn things around and improve the team's performances.

United subsequently travelled to Stamford Bridge, where they suffered another defeat against Chelsea, further increasing questions about Carrick's position.

There had been reports that the club's hierarchy wanted to reassess his future during the November international break.

Carrick was therefore facing three important fixtures against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa to convince the club's decision-makers that he remained the right person to lead the team.

Although United lost to Chelsea, they produced an impressive comeback on Tuesday, recovering from two goals down to defeat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford.

The victory ended their nine-game winless run and provided Carrick with some much-needed relief following weeks of criticism.

The result could also improve his chances of keeping his position, although his immediate priority will be Sunday's Premier League encounter against Aston Villa.

Despite their European victory, United's domestic situation remains worrying, with the club sitting 17th in the Premier League table after recording just one league win all season.

Meanwhile, several managers have been linked with replacing Carrick should Manchester United decide to make a change.

Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte are among the names reportedly being considered as potential candidates for the Old Trafford job.

However, Carrick is understood to still have supporters within the club's boardroom, meaning a decision on his future is not necessarily straightforward.

The report also suggests that Unai Emery is unlikely to be considered a realistic option, with the Aston Villa manager reportedly close to agreeing a new contract with his current club.

For now, Carrick will be hoping that the dramatic victory over Roma represents a turning point in Manchester United's season.