Manchester United are reportedly not planning to replace manager Michael Carrick with Antonio Conte, according to TEAMtalk. The club is said to be sticking by its under-fire coach despite a winless run stretching to three games.
A 1-1 draw away to Fulham on Sunday extended that run, following successive losses to Manchester City and Brighton. United sit 12th in the Premier League table and are already out of the EFL Cup.
United board committed to Carrick
The international break is a popular time for clubs to make major managerial decisions, and after the Fulham draw the United hot seat is looking warmer than ever for Carrick. However, it is reported that the United hierarchy remains committed to their incumbent boss.
Despite reports in Italy suggesting Conte is United's No. 1 choice to replace Carrick if he departs, TEAMtalk reported there has been no discussion regarding potential replacements. Conte, 57, remains a free agent after departing Napoli at the end of last season. The Italian is a desirable target given he lifted the Premier League crown at Chelsea in 2017.
Nonetheless, it appears United remains all in on Carrick's project for the time being. Those in charge at Old Trafford will undoubtedly need to see some improvement after the international break if they are to maintain that position.
Gabriel enlists agent Ali Barat
JJ Gabriel has reportedly enlisted the services of agent Ali Barat as his attempts to leave United escalate. The intermediary's influence could prove vital to his future after reportedly unlocking links to Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
It emerged last week that Gabriel has requested to be de-registered at United, which would allow him to pursue a move elsewhere. Emerging prospects are not permitted official representation until they turn 16. However, the Manchester Evening News reported Barat is in pole position to become Gabriel's agent once he turns 16 on October 6, thanks to his work in attracting the interest of Real and Bayern of late.
Gabriel, who recently scored a hat-trick in a UEFA Youth League clash against Sabah, has already been courted by Barcelona over the years. Arsenal have also been linked as they look to add another bright British talent to their stable of gems.
United have reportedly rejected Gabriel's request to be de-registered, with the two parties in limbo for the time being. However, if granted, Gabriel could join a continental superpower provided he obtains an EU passport, which he is eligible for through his parents, a Greek-Cypriot mother and a father, Joe, who played for the Republic of Ireland.
