Manchester United are prepared to consider Julian Nagelsmann if they decide to dismiss Michael Carrick, and the former Bayern Munich boss is open to talks. United's hierarchy is reviewing Carrick's future after Wednesday's 4-1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League extended the club's winless run to seven matches.
United have won only two of their 11 games this season, against newly promoted Ipswich and European minnows Sabah. Carrick apologised to the travelling supporters at the rainy Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, a scene reminiscent of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's final moments before his sacking in 2021.
Nagelsmann open to approach
No decision had been made public as of Thursday morning, but the Telegraph reports that United would consider appointing Nagelsmann if Carrick is removed. The 39-year-old has been out of work since resigning as Germany manager in July. Nagelsmann, who made his name at Hoffenheim in his late 20s, has links with Christopher Vivell, United's director of global talent, having worked together at RB Leipzig.
When Vivell was technical director at Chelsea, the club looked at hiring Nagelsmann. The report adds that Nagelsmann held concerns about Chelsea's structure and recruitment in 2023, so he would likely demand assurances from the United board on those issues.
Other candidates on the shortlist
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler is also on United's shortlist, with his side flying high in the Premier League. Like Nagelsmann, Hurzeler began his managerial career at a young age and has been tracked by the Old Trafford hierarchy as a future option. Antonio Conte has been offered to United, although the ex-Chelsea and Tottenham manager is not expected to be considered. Eddie Howe, a free agent after leaving Newcastle, is also not expected to be considered.
Carrick was handed a two-year deal following an outstanding spell as interim manager last season, but things have unravelled, with captain Bruno Fernandes calling out his tactics in a post-match interview. Carrick declined to discuss his future before flying back from Italy, but he is due to face the media on Friday to preview Sunday's clash with Bournemouth. Most fans are directing their anger at United's players and owners rather than Carrick.
"It's not about playing for me, it's about playing for this football club," Carrick said. "It's the responsibility that comes with being in the position; I'm responsible for the football club and the supporters. I'm giving my best, absolute best all the time, I care about it. My whole life's wrapped around it. I genuinely give everything that I possibly can."
