Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick remains under pressure following Sunday's dramatic 4-4 draw with Aston Villa in the Premier League, with the club's hierarchy now weighing up whether to stick with him or turn to a new manager.
Carrick's position looked precarious last month after United were beaten 4-1 by Como in the Champions League and 3-0 by Bournemouth in the Premier League. Crisis talks on October 26 led to a decision to keep Carrick in charge, but it was made clear that results needed to improve over the final three games before the international break.
Mixed Results in Final Stretch
United's run began with a 2-0 defeat at Chelsea, a match made harder by Lisandro Martinez's sending off in the second half. Carrick was on the brink when United trailed 2-0 at half-time against Roma in the Champions League, but a spirited comeback secured a crucial 3-2 win.
That result set up a decisive Premier League clash with Aston Villa. United fell two goals behind twice but fought back to earn a 4-4 draw. With one win, one draw and one defeat in that stretch, United's hierarchy must decide whether Carrick has done enough to keep his job.
Candidates to Replace Carrick
Should Carrick leave, several options have been identified. Mauricio Pochettino, currently in charge of the United States national team, is reportedly willing to leave to join United. He has previously been considered for the role but was not chosen.
Eddie Howe is a free agent after leaving Newcastle in the summer, and Ineos are thought to admire the English head coach. Julian Nagelsmann, also a free agent, has been suggested as not interested in the United job, though that could change if Carrick departs.
Antonio Conte, another free agent, has denied being in advanced talks with clubs but has spoken of his desire to manage a fallen giant. Unai Emery, the Aston Villa manager, is seen as a dream appointment, though luring him away from Villa would require significant effort.
