Manchester United have decided to keep faith with Michael Carrick for the foreseeable future, despite a difficult start to the season that has left the club just one point above the relegation zone.
The decision comes after a run of only two wins from the first 12 matches this season. It is a risky move for INEOS, particularly as players have been outspoken in their criticism of the manager and the club's hierarchy.
Pressure Mounts Before International Break
United's upcoming fixtures offer little respite, with Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa all to play before the international break. If results do not improve sharply by that point, Carrick could be dismissed in the near future.
Eddie Howe is considered a strong contender for the role, but sacking Carrick and appointing the former Newcastle head coach would reportedly cost Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his colleagues millions that they may not be able to afford.
Nine Left-Field Candidates
With Howe, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann seemingly out of the question, Express Sport has identified nine alternative candidates United could pursue as Carrick's replacement.
Rob Edwards, whose most recent job was at Wolves, is a potential option if the club wants a British manager. The 43-year-old had periods of success with Luton Town and Wolves and recently rejected Burnley.
Ernesto Valverde, most recently of Athletic Club, is currently available. The 62-year-old Spaniard won two league titles with Barcelona and has experience at big clubs in multiple countries, including Barcelona, Valencia and Athletic Club in Spain and Olympiacos in Greece.
Wayne Rooney has been out of the managerial spotlight since leaving Plymouth Argyle, but it is unlikely he would say no if given the opportunity. He has not coached since December 2024, and he recently made clear the standards he expects in an angry rant about the club's current squad.
Robin van Persie, a former team-mate of Carrick and Rooney, is another available coach. The 43-year-old Dutchman has been out of work since leaving Feyenoord earlier this year and could be considered as a short-term option.
Roy Keane, another former player, knows what it takes to be part of a winning United team. Keane has not managed for 15 years but said recently he is not completely opposed to a return to the dugout.
