Michael Carrick is set to remain as Manchester United manager, at least in the short term, after the club's hierarchy decided against an immediate change following a week of heavy defeats and dressing-room unrest.
The former midfielder had come under intense pressure after United were thumped by Como and Bournemouth, while public rants from Lisandro Martinez and Bruno Fernandes pointed to a fractured squad. United chiefs Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox travelled to Carrington on Monday for crisis talks, but Carrick emerged still in charge and will be given time to turn results around, starting with this weekend's clash against Chelsea.
Disagreement on replacement
A key factor in the decision was the difficulty of finding a successor. Former Chelsea and Spurs boss Antonio Conte is thought to be open to dialogue, but United have yet to make an approach. Julian Nagelsmann, the former Bayern Munich coach now available after his spell with the German national team, is favoured by director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, though his opinion is expected to be trumped by that of Jason Wilcox.
Eddie Howe is also among the names mentioned and would have had serious backing had Dan Ashworth and Sir Dave Brailsford still been at Old Trafford, but with both having moved on, Howe may not be among the frontrunners.
Compensation packages and Carrick cost
United also face the issue of compensation. Should Carrick be sacked, he would be entitled to a severance package given he signed a two-year deal to become permanent manager in the summer. It would be the third time in as many years that United have prematurely axed their managers, following payouts to Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, sacked in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
Acquiring a new man would also be costly. Howe would come at a price due to the terms of his exit from Newcastle, potentially costing around £6m. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has admirers in Manchester but has been discounted due to the significant compensation package he would command to leave the Amex.
International break on the horizon
Timing is also a consideration. United have three games before the second international break of the season, starting with Chelsea, followed by Champions League opponents Roma and a showdown with Villa. Should a change be deemed necessary, the international break could be the moment, depending on results between now and then.
Players still onside
Despite a high-profile falling out with Bruno Fernandes, the pair appear to have cleared the air, and the Portuguese midfielder is available for this weekend's game. Carrick held talks with players and staff after it became clear he would remain in charge, emphasising unity and winning games as the priority.
An unnamed player told BBC Sport: "The feeling is that we all want to put it right. Players, staff, everyone." Carrick retains backing in the dressing room and the boardroom, and United chiefs and players will be hoping the decision proves correct.
