Manchester United have reportedly named five candidates to be their manager for next season if Michael Carrick is not given the permanent job. The former Red Devils midfielder has made an excellent start to his temporary spell in charge of Old Trafford’s powerhouse side. He has won six of his first eight games and United’s form has put them firmly in contention for Champions League qualification.
His resurgence under Carrick has increased the likelihood that the 44-year-old will take over as manager permanently next season. It was initially reported that he had been appointed on a strictly caretaker basis and was unlikely to continue in the role beyond the summer. However, his strong start has reportedly led to a change in attitude among the United bosses.
According to ESPN, Carrick has won praise from club executives for his calm and measured approach, particularly when dealing with the media, and has proven his ability to handle the pressures of the job.
The report adds that while club leaders are impressed, there is no internal rush to hand Carrick the full-time managerial role. However, that possibility cannot be ruled out yet.
United are also said to have drawn up a shortlist of five potential replacements should they decide to go in a different direction for next season.
There is said to be a feeling within the club that Carrick’s strong start could yet fade away, meaning a thorough reinforcement process is needed.
Julian Nagelsmann, Roberto De Zerbi, Andoni Iraola, Unai Emery and Oliver Glasner are thought to be on United’s shortlist.
De Zerbi is the only one of the five managers to be unemployed and will not have to pay compensation if United decide to appoint him.
Meanwhile, there is speculation that Nagelsmann could leave Germany after this summer’s World Cup, while Glasner could leave Crystal Palace near the end of the season.
It remains to be seen how United’s managerial changes will play out over the coming weeks, but it will likely depend on how Carrick performs between now and the end of the campaign.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently admitted to Sky Sports that he is pleased with Carrick’s efforts so far, saying: “He’s doing a great job, yes, absolutely.”
However, the INEOS billionaire refused to comment on whether he would get the role permanently, replying: “I’m not going there.”
