Cesc Fabregas has already got the better of Manchester United once this season, and former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn believes the Como boss has the quality to step up to a top club like United. However, the current situation at Old Trafford, with Michael Carrick under pressure, could complicate any potential move.
Fabregas Impressing at Como
Fabregas, who oversaw a 4-1 Champions League victory over the Red Devils, has been praised by Winterburn, who witnessed Arsene Wenger's wisdom first-hand during his time at Arsenal. Winterburn told Express Sport: "With Cesc, he's relatively new in terms of his managerial roles but it looks like he's doing brilliantly. In the bits of the games I've seen they (Como) play quite an attractive game as well. They move the ball quickly."
"So he's obviously doing something right with his coaching staff. Usually that tells you that if he keeps that going then one of the bigger teams eventually is going to come calling and ask him to see if he can do it at [what I'd say is] the next level, with a real, real big team."
Potential Move to United
A return to Arsenal is off the table for now, with Mikel Arteta recently signing a contract extension. Winterburn added: "You could list a whole host of top clubs, if a manager gets the sack. And if they're looking at Cesc then... would he find it really difficult? It depends on when it is in the season but would he find it really difficult to turn that down and think that 'if I turn this down, will the opportunity come again?' So I think it's all about timing, where he sees himself going."
"There's no doubt he was a brilliant player. I'm sure his aspirations are to manage at the very, very top with the best team that he can, but at this moment in time it's Como and he's doing a great job."
Carrick Under Pressure
Michael Carrick remains in his post for now, but the reception given to the current boss after last week's defeat to Bournemouth sent a message to the board. Winterburn said: "If you're asking me about the history of Man United, they're a big club, they're still a big club in terms of [being] supported around the world. There's usually a manager that thinks he could change it and make them better."
"But let's be respectful to Michael Carrick at the moment. He's under huge pressure. He came in last season, did a brilliant job. But... at the moment I don't think that United are going to accept too many more of those results. The problem that they have is the board know that the supporters are with Michael Carrick and are against the board and some of the players. That's a difficult position to be in."
After United play Chelsea this weekend, they will take on Roma in the Champions League before facing Aston Villa and Liverpool in the Premier League. Carrick was asked about his future in the lead-up to a pivotal few weeks but made his feelings clear: "I don't need any assurances from anyone. I totally get the position. I understand the job. I understand the responsibilities. I understand what comes with that. So, I really don't need any assurances from anyone in that regard. I'm here to do my job. I'm here to do the best for the team, and I'm desperate to make us better and improve things. So, I'm not surprised [to still be in a job], no."
