Manchester United have reportedly pinpointed Fabian Hurzeler as their top choice to succeed Michael Carrick should they opt to make a managerial change. Carrick, who only put pen to paper on a permanent deal in the summer, has faced mounting scrutiny in recent weeks with United securing just one victory in their last six Premier League outings.
Pressure mounts after poor start
Following his achievement in steering the club to a third-place finish last season, the United board showed significant backing in Carrick. Yet the opening stages of the 2026/27 campaign have not produced a similar level of performance, with the Red Devils presently languishing in 13th position in the Premier League standings.
Consequently, doubts are starting to surface regarding Carrick's long-term prospects at Old Trafford, especially considering the club's track record of parting ways with head coaches mid-season. Erik ten Hag was relieved of his duties in October 2024, while his replacement, Ruben Amorim, was let go at the beginning of 2026.
Board's stance and Hurzeler links
Notwithstanding the intensifying pressure, United are anticipated to afford Carrick additional time to reverse the situation before taking any significant action. That said, the club's leadership will be demanding an upturn in performances over the forthcoming weeks, with October and early November potentially proving decisive for their campaign.
According to The Sun, the United hierarchy are observing developments carefully and view Hurzeler as their 'standout' option should they choose to replace Carrick. The Brighton manager was earmarked as a prospective future United boss last year, alongside Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner.
Iraola succeeded Arne Slot in the summer, while Glasner took the reins at Nottingham Forest after departing Crystal Palace. United ultimately chose to persist with Carrick after he delivered Champions League qualification, though his position may face additional scrutiny if performances fail to improve.
Brighton's position and other candidates
Hurzeler, meanwhile, pledged his future to Brighton by penning a fresh three-year deal in June. The Seagulls would consequently be well-placed to command a significant compensation package should United lodge an approach.
Brighton owner Tony Bloom cautioned last month that the club was 'prepared for any eventuality' if another outfit showed an interest in recruiting the German. Since assuming control in 2024, Hurzeler has steered Brighton to four victories in six encounters with United, while guiding the Seagulls to back-to-back eighth-place finishes in the Premier League.
Antonio Conte represents another possible candidate for United, with the Italian presently unattached and potentially receptive to a return to English football. The ex-Chelsea and Tottenham boss last oversaw a Premier League fixture in 2023, while in charge at Spurs. United have additionally kept tabs on Kieran McKenna and Eddie Howe as potential managerial candidates.
