Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the new favourite to become the next Manchester United manager, with Michael Carrick reportedly on the brink of being sacked.
United twice came from two goals down to earn a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, but the point was not enough to lift the club out of the relegation zone heading into the international break.
Carrick under pressure after reprieve
Carrick was given a two-game reprieve following the defeat at Chelsea last weekend, and has since taken a win over Roma and a draw with Villa. Neither performance has been considered remotely promising, so the pressure remains on his position.
Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann have been seen as the leading contenders and remain in the running, but they are now joined by USA manager Pochettino.
Pochettino open to Premier League return
Pochettino has long been linked with the Old Trafford job, particularly during his successful spell with Tottenham, which ended seven years ago. The Argentine recently signed a new contract to remain in charge of the USMNT, but is known to be open to a return to the Premier League.
The cheaper options of Howe and Nagelsmann may appeal more to United chiefs. Both are currently free agents after leaving Newcastle and the Germany national team respectively during the summer. Howe's Premier League experience may be the deciding factor if a change is made.
Boardroom split and other candidates
According to reports, there is a difference of opinion in the United boardroom, with Howe the current preferred candidate of technical director James Wilcox, while Nagelsmann is highly regarded by Christopher Vivell, the club's head of recruitment.
Antonio Conte has made it clear he would be interested in a return to English football, but Didier Deschamps, fresh from leaving the France national team setup, has reportedly dismissed an approach. Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness is also in the frame, though his appointment would be considered another big gamble.
Next Manchester United manager odds
- Mauricio Pochettino: 5/2
- Eddie Howe: 3/1
- Julian Nagelsmann: 6/1
- Antonio Conte: 10/1
- Didier Deschamps: 10/1
- Unai Emery: 12/1
- Sebastian Hoeness: 25/1
- Fabian Hurzeler: 33/1
Odds via MGMBET, subject to change.
