Unai Emery has established himself among Europe’s most respected managers, with Manchester United now facing major decisions over Michael Carrick’s future.

The Spaniard has transformed Aston Villa since arriving in October 2022, turning a struggling side into regular European contenders.

His remarkable managerial career includes three consecutive Europa League triumphs with Sevilla, another with Villarreal and a fifth with Villa in 2026.

Emery also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain and previously managed Arsenal, although his spell in north London ended disappointingly.

Known for meticulous preparation, Emery favours disciplined defensive structures, aggressive pressing and rapid transitions into attack.

His teams frequently operate in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 system, combining positional organisation with dangerous counterattacking football.

United desperately need that kind of consistency.

Despite Carrick guiding the Red Devils to third place last season, United have won just two of their opening 12 competitive matches this campaign.

Sunday’s humiliating 3-0 defeat against Bournemouth left them 16th in the Premier League, with Carrick now fighting for his job ahead of Saturday’s Chelsea clash.

United have already identified Emery among their managerial candidates, alongside Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte.

Unai Emery highly admired by Manchester United

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Unai Emery is particularly admired by Manchester United’s decision-makers.

Speaking to DAZN Football, Romano explained: “If you ask me about the manager who is mostly appreciated by United, in terms of potential candidates, the manager they love is for sure Unai Emery.”

However, securing the Aston Villa manager would prove extremely difficult.

Emery remains contracted until June 2029 and enjoys considerable control over recruitment and football operations at Villa Park.

United could also face approximately £20 million in compensation to secure his appointment.

Romano has previously stressed that Emery remains fully committed to Aston Villa, meaning admiration does not necessarily translate into negotiations.

Howe and Nagelsmann therefore remain more immediately attainable candidates.

For now, Carrick retains United’s backing, but another disappointing result against Chelsea could accelerate discussions over his replacement.

Fabrizio gives the latest on the Man Utd manager situation with some top names being linked. 👀

Will United make a change after this weekend’s fixture against Chelsea?! 😯

#PremierLeague #DAZNBet https://t.co/FREqJWuFUR

— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) October 30, 2026