Paul Scholes Outlines Six Preferred Managers for Manchester United Over Michael Carrick
Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has publicly named six managers he would prefer to see take the permanent managerial role at Old Trafford, overlooking interim boss Michael Carrick. The former midfielder and current pundit has been vocal in recent months about his ideal candidates to lead the club, despite Carrick's encouraging start with six wins and one draw in his first seven matches.
Scholes' Scepticism Towards Carrick's Tenure
Scholes has expressed doubts about Carrick's suitability for the long-term position, even after the interim manager's strong initial results. Following United's first defeat under Carrick, a 2-1 loss to Newcastle on Wednesday, Scholes posted a sarcastic comment on his Instagram story, stating: "Michael has definitely got something special about him... cos Utd have been c*** last four games... night." This aligns with his consistent exclusion of Carrick from his list of preferred candidates over the past five months.
Top Candidates According to Scholes
On The Good, The Bad and The Football Podcast, Scholes revealed his top choice is Carlo Ancelotti, the former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager who currently coaches the Brazil national team. He praised Ancelotti's experience and man-management skills, saying: "He is the perfect one for Manchester United, where you think he will make players feel a million dollars. And he has the experience of winning stuff." However, Scholes questioned whether Ancelotti's age might be a concern.
Scholes' list of alternatives includes:
- Thomas Tuchel: The England boss is Scholes' number one target, citing his success at big clubs like Chelsea and Bayern Munich. Scholes noted Tuchel's contract with England runs only until the summer, though he has since signed an extension through Euro 2028.
- Unai Emery: The Aston Villa manager was identified as a shrewd choice in January, with Scholes believing the prestige of United could lure him from Villa Park.
- Andoni Iraola: The Bournemouth manager earned praise for his attacking philosophy and work on the south coast.
- Eddie Howe: The Newcastle boss, who has guided his club to the Champions League, was endorsed by Scholes in October, though he expressed uncertainty about Howe's assistant.
- Zinedine Zidane: The former Real Madrid manager was suggested as an excellent alternative, though Scholes questioned his English language skills and interest in moving to England.
Context and Timing of Scholes' Comments
Scholes began listing potential replacements earlier this year, before Ruben Amorim's dismissal and Carrick's interim appointment. He has maintained this stance consistently, even as Carrick has steadied the ship at United. With Tuchel now committed to England and Zidane reportedly set to manage France, Scholes' preferences highlight the challenges United may face in securing a top-tier manager. His comments underscore a belief that the club needs a proven, high-profile leader to restore its former glory, rather than relying on an internal appointment like Carrick.
