Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for this weekend's Premier League clash against Bournemouth. The former midfielder is under mounting pressure following Wednesday's Champions League defeat to competition newcomers Como.
The 4-1 battering in Italy appeared to have left Carrick on the brink, with his captain Bruno Fernandes publicly criticising his tactics on the night. United have taken just seven points from seven Premier League games, with their only victory coming against newly-promoted Ipswich Town in August.
Position Not Under Immediate Threat
Despite the alarming run of form, Carrick's position is not under immediate threat, with it regarded as 'business as usual' at the club ahead of the visit of the Cherries on Sunday. The United squad was given the day off on Thursday following their humiliating defeat, having arrived back in the UK in the early hours of the morning.
Carrick is scheduled to hold his pre-match press conference at the regular time of 1:30pm on Friday afternoon. After the Bournemouth game, United head to Chelsea on 31 October before returning to Champions League action at home to Roma. They host Aston Villa before the final international break of the year.
Replacement Candidates Identified
While Carrick is set to remain in charge this week, the club have begun the process of identifying replacements. According to bookmaker Betfair, the leading contenders include Eddie Howe at 9/4, Antonio Conte and Fabian Hurzeler at 5/1, Julian Nagelsmann at 7/1, Kieran McKenna at 8/1, and Cesc Fabregas at 11/1.
Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is said to have his eye on the job should it become vacant. Antonio Conte is also said to be keen, although reports have suggested United chiefs fear the fiery Italian 'would not fit into the structure the club is determined to adopt'. Julian Nagelsmann is keen to return to the dugout after being sacked by Germany following their wretched World Cup campaign, with the 39-year-old eager to take on the job at Old Trafford.
