Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is under enormous pressure following a disastrous start to the 2026/27 campaign, despite the optimism surrounding his permanent appointment.

The former midfielder earned the job after an impressive interim spell last season, guiding United to third place in the Premier League and securing Champions League qualification.

However, the transformation supporters hoped for has failed to materialise.

United have won just two of their opening ten competitive matches, defeating newly-promoted Ipswich Town and Champions League debutants Sabah FK.

Those victories have been overshadowed by repeated defensive mistakes, wasted attacking opportunities and an inability to control matches.

Against Tottenham Hotspur, United conceded a stoppage-time equaliser despite enjoying a numerical advantage.

They subsequently lost 2-0 against Atletico Madrid, before Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United extended their winless run to six matches.

Carrick’s position has consequently attracted growing scrutiny, with several experienced coaches linked with taking charge at Old Trafford.

Among them is Antonio Conte, who has won league titles with Juventus, Chelsea, Inter Milan and Napoli.

As Centre Devils previously reported, Conte’s representatives have informed United that the Italian would be interested in replacing Carrick.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have now welcomed an experienced new managerial appointment.

Manchester United officially get new manager

Emily Brammeier has announced her arrival at Manchester United as the club’s new communications manager, overseeing communications for Manchester United Women.

Writing on LinkedIn, Brammeier confirmed she had joined United following ten years working in professional cycling.

“I’m really happy to share that I’ve started a new chapter in my career with Manchester United, leading communications for Manchester United Women,” she wrote.

She described the move as a significant career change and expressed excitement about the continued growth of women’s football.

Her responsibilities will include developing communication strategies, attracting new audiences and promoting the stories of United’s players.

Brammeier also thanked her new colleagues for their warm welcome during her first week.

The appointment concerns United’s communications department and does not affect Carrick’s position as men’s first-team manager.