Manchester United are reportedly set to sack Michael Carrick, and Daily Star Sport has a look at who could replace him in the Old Trafford dugout

Manchester United are now expected to part ways with Michael Carrick, according to reports. The Red Devils have produced two last-gasp comebacks in as many games, but it has not been enough to save his job.

United, who currently sit in the relegation zone, are now expected to have a new man in the dugout when they resume domestic football against Liverpool later this month. And pressure is mounting to find someone capable of turning their fortunes around.

A number of familiar names have already been linked with the hot seat as Daily Star Sport looks at the runners and riders for the job...

Mauricio Pochettino

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Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the clear favourite the top job at Old Trafford. The Argentine has seen his odds slashed in the markets and reports suggest he would be open to a Premier League return.

Pochettino, who has managed Chelsea and Tottenham on these shores, is currently at the helm of the USMNT - who he led during their home World Cup.

However, he hasn't been shy about his desire to return to England, and even admitted he had received “some calls from different clubs” before the World Cup. United have previously sounded him out for the job, but he missed out to Erik ten Hag.

Antonio Conte

Antonio Conte, who unlike Poch has won the Premier League, is currently out of work. The Italian broke his silence about the role late last month: "Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management.

"It will be a carefully considered decision, one I will make when I believe the conditions are right...Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as manager.

“Until then, any assumptions about my demands and my professional future remain speculation and cannot be treated as fact.”

Fabian Hurzeler

Fabian Hurzeler has been impressing with his high-flying Brighton side - and he would likely remain at the Seagulls if United did come calling. The Red Devils had been linked to his services, but Hurzeler admitted he would rather remain at the Amex.

"I’m fully focused on my job here," Hurzeler told a press conference before the two sides clashed. "I’ve got no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days."

He added: "I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick and the job he has done at Manchester United the last season. He’s a great human being, a great personality, and I really respect him. There’s nothing more to say about that."

Unai Emery

Michael Carrick's last opponent in the dugout was Unai Emery - who reports have also linked to the top job at Old Trafford. However, fans have different ideas after his incredible interview meltdown after the match.

Fans reacted to Emery’s uncomfortable interview and antics, as one said: “He is not a big team manager, and his tactics will never suit a big team.”

A second joked: “Like I said that other week, he'd be in a straight jacket by Christmas at United.” A third replied: “You're dead right. I like the guy, he has the Kevin Keegan way about him. He's honest and a straight shooter, but Old Trafford would destroy him and he probably us.”

Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe has been without a club since departing Newcastle in the summer, though a compensation package of approximately £3million would still be owed to the Magpies.

The ex-Newcastle manager has reportedly turned down the chance to take the reins at Crystal Palace, with Pierre Sage set to leave Selhurst Park as the Eagles languish at the foot of the Premier League.

Last month reports emerged that Howe turned down the chance to take the reins at Champions League outfit Lens, who parted ways with Dino Toppmoller in September.

Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna is another former United employee who could step up to the role. McKenna had been considered as a contender for the role during the uncertainty surrounding Erik ten Hag's position.

United were said to be among the two clubs, along with Chelsea, to have met with the Northern Irishman during his successful period at Ipswich Town.

After stepping down as manager in June 2026, he was said to be eyeing an extended break, but he is already being linked with a return to United.

Gareth Southgate

Gareth Southgate has remained out of work since he walked away from the England role following their heartbreaking Euro 2024 final loss to Spain.

Southgate's name has been closely linked with the United role for the past couple of years, but it has never really appeared to move past that stage.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to be a big admirer of Southgate, but former Man Utd scout Mick Brown - who is still well-connected at Old Trafford - insists ex-England boss Southgate is “not going to be the one to replace Carrick if they decide to pull the trigger”.

Julian Nagelsmann

Julian Nagelsmann is another named that popped up on the five-man shortlist that was widely reported after the Red Devils 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.

Reports at the time suggested he is highly regarded by United’s head of recruitment, Christopher Vivell and, those same reports, said Nagelsmann would be interested in the role.

He was last in work with the German national team, where he resigned after their embarrassing 2026 World Cup exit.