Manchester United could use the international break to bring in Michael Carrick's replacement before their next match, following an uninspiring start to the campaign. Carrick has already been given one stay of execution this season, and Express Sport has identified potential options.
Emery and Howe lead the contenders
Unai Emery, the latest manager to land a sucker-punch on United, is said to have plenty of admirers among the INEOS hierarchy. The biggest issue would be convincing Emery to ditch his Aston Villa project in favour of the situation at Old Trafford. Emery has a history at so-called 'big clubs', but his time at Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain didn't go to plan.
Among candidates who are out of work, Eddie Howe is the most likely option. There were suggestions that INEOS turned their nose up at the prospect of hiring Howe before handing Carrick a second chance. Given other Premier League clubs might soon need a new manager, United could be forced to give Howe a call.
Nagelsmann, Conte and Southgate in the frame
Julian Nagelsmann, also currently out of work, was mentioned as an option during the summer, but his commitments with the German national team meant United didn't explore it further. He has since left the European nation and is said to be among the runners and riders if United end the Carrick experiment during the international break.
Antonio Conte basically sent out a come-and-get-me plea when explaining how he'd like his next job to be at a fallen giant of English football. The only reservation United might have is that things do tend to end badly whenever Conte is hired by a club.
INEOS are long-term admirers of Gareth Southgate, who has been out of work since leaving the Three Lions post in 2024. While it might not be the appointment the fans want, a sensible head may be necessary in moments like these.
McKenna and Solskjaer as further options
Kieran McKenna knows the club, has Premier League experience, and is out of work, making him an ideal INEOS candidate. There is an argument that he would be an improvement on Carrick. It is not too long since Chelsea were sniffing around the Northern Irishman, who eventually left Ipswich on the eve of the current campaign.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also remains a potential option as United weigh up their next move during the break.
