Manchester United are reportedly preparing to part ways with manager Michael Carrick, with the club already drawing up a list of potential successors. Carrick was appointed on a full-time basis in the summer after impressing as interim boss during the second half of the previous season.
However, the current campaign has been difficult, with United winning just three of their 15 matches across all competitions. Two of those victories came in the Champions League, leaving the club with only one win from their first 10 Premier League games.
Poor form sparks change
That run of results has seen United drop into the relegation zone, and the INEOS hierarchy have reportedly decided they have seen enough. With Carrick expected to leave, attention has turned to who could take over at Old Trafford.
Several names have been linked with the role, with the following five candidates emerging as the leading options.
Mauricio Pochettino
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the position. The Argentine recently signed a new contract with the United States national team, but he is believed to be open to a return to England, with United exploring the possibility of hiring him.
Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe has also been mentioned in the conversation since speculation over Carrick's future intensified. Howe left Newcastle on the eve of the current campaign and has not yet taken up another job. He would fit the mould as far as INEOS are concerned, given he is a homegrown talent, though questions remain over whether he has the pedigree for a club like United.
Julian Nagelsmann
Julian Nagelsmann is also said to be on INEOS' shortlist. The former Bayern Munich boss was let go by the German national team after a poor performance at the World Cup. Nagelsmann has long been tipped to try his hand in the Premier League, and this could be the perfect opportunity.
Sebastian Hoeness
Sebastian Hoeness is an outside pick. After ending his playing career early, Hoeness moved into management and has enjoyed success, particularly with current club Stuttgart. He has won the DFB Pokal and helped Stuttgart into the Champions League, with big clubs said to be circling around the 44-year-old.
Antonio Conte
Antonio Conte completes the list. The Italian indicated earlier this year that he would love to take over a fallen giant in England. However, reports suggest no contact has been made between the club and Conte's representatives, and given how things tend to end with Conte in charge, it may not be the worst idea.
