Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are emerging as early contenders to become the next Manchester United head coach if Michael Carrick loses his job. Carrick's position at Old Trafford is under major threat following the club's poor start to the season, with work towards identifying his successor believed to be ongoing. It is understood Howe and Nagelsmann both feature prominently on the list of candidates the club has explored to potentially replace him, and that both managers are aware of United's interest.
Sources have also indicated Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is admired at United, but the fact he is under contract would complicate any move for the Spaniard. Howe, Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte – who is interested in the job – are out of work, making their potential appointments easier. Multiple sources have told BBC Sport that former Newcastle boss Howe is fully open to joining United if Carrick loses his job.
Nagelsmann is available after leaving his job as Germany head coach after the World Cup, while Conte – who has also been linked with Juventus – is open to returning to football after leaving Napoli in May. Should Carrick be dismissed, the 20-time English top-flight champions will be looking to appoint their eighth permanent manager or head coach since Sir Alex Ferguson departed the club in 2013 on the back of winning their most recent title. Here, BBC Sport takes a closer look at the contenders who could be up for the job.
Why is Wilcox in line of fire from Man Utd fans? End approaching for Carrick but Man Utd fans make clear who they blame The Englishman has been out of work since leaving Newcastle in the summer. Howe, 48, helped the Magpies end their 56-year wait for a trophy when he led them to League Cup glory in 2025 and secured two Champions League qualifications in his five years in charge.
The former Bournemouth and Burnley boss is available and would be considered. Sources have indicated Howe is open to returning to management with United specifically after leaving St James' Park in the close season. The Italian has been out of work since leaving Napoli in June and is interested in the job.
Conte has won Serie A titles with three different clubs as manager - Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli. The 57-year-old led Chelsea to the Premier League title in 2017 and FA Cup in 2018. During his time at Tottenham between November 2021 and March 2023 he helped them qualify for the Champions League.
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