Jamie Redknapp has said there are only two realistic candidates to replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager if the club decides to make a change. The former Liverpool player's comments come as United sit 17th in the Premier League after a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, outside the relegation zone only on goal difference.
United have not won a league game since August 30 against Ipswich Town and are winless in nine matches across all competitions. Carrick was appointed to the role permanently during the summer, but speculation about his future has grown in recent weeks.
Redknapp names only two runners
Speaking to Sky Sports, Redknapp identified ex-Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and Aston Villa manager Unai Emery as the only viable options. "There are only, I think, two runners," he said. "Listen, Michael Carrick is still in the job, so it's unfair to be saying it. But if that's the case, if this doesn't improve, it's inevitable that he's going to lose his job. It can only be him [Emery] really and Eddie Howe."
Redknapp also discussed Julian Nagelsmann, who has been linked with the United role since leaving his position as Germany's national team manager in the summer. "Julian Nagelsmann has done pretty well in Germany," Redknapp said. "I think he started off his career so good... last few years, not quite so good, obviously with Germany at the World Cup."
Emery seen as most trusted option
Redknapp suggested Emery would be the most reliable choice, noting the Spaniard's project at Aston Villa. "I can only really see him [Emery]. It depends, does he want to leave Aston Villa? He's got a project, he can do what he likes there, he's running the club, whatever he says goes. But he might think, 'This is the challenge for me', and every manager has an ego. Everyone will believe that they can turn Manchester United around, they will genuinely believe that. With his abilities, he would probably be the only one that I would trust to be able to do it."
Redknapp added that a simple change of manager and assistant would not be enough to fix the club's deeper issues. "I don't believe anyone else is just going to go in there with a manager and an assistant and change it. There are so many things behind the scenes that need to change."
