Man Utd Reveal Their Ranked Shortlist of Top Targets to Replace Michael Carrick

Man Utd Reveal Their Ranked Shortlist of Top Targets to Replace Michael Carrick

Eddie Howe is reportedly Manchester United's top choice to succeed Michael Carrick, though two other candidates are also being considered should a managerial change occur at Old Trafford.

Sunday's embarrassing 3–0 thrashing at the hands of Bournemouth seemed to signal the end for the 45-year-old, who has presided over a catastrophic beginning to his first complete season in charge. Nevertheless, club officials have opted to keep Carrick in his position at least through the upcoming fixture against Chelsea.

Anything short of a win at Stamford Bridge this Saturday will push Carrick closer to the exit and fuel speculation about who might replace him.

Speaking via his YouTube channel, journalist Fabrizio Romano disclosed that the Red Devils have already begun holding talks with potential candidates for the managerial role at Old Trafford.

"[Man Utd] also, because it's the reality, they also had some conversations with agents, camps, representatives of other managers, because Manchester United had some conversation and that's absolutely normal," the Italian journalist stated.

"I'm not accusing Man Utd of anything wrong. It's normal when things are not going well you start preparing for a potential change. So Man Utd had conversations with agents of managers."

Howe Leads the Race for Man Utd Job

Eddie Howe

Romano further revealed the three credible names being considered as Carrick's potential replacements—should he be dismissed—with United appearing likely to explore the free agent market.

Former Newcastle United boss Howe currently heads the list, followed by ex-Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann and former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

"I told you that the three names we should take in consideration as free managers are in this order—Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann, Antonio Conte.

"Three managers very different one from the other and also in terms of approach.

"United are yet to say 'Okay, let's go for this coach.' So the moment is still open but these are three names and obviously to talk with representatives, intermediaries or anyone close to these coaches is absolutely something normal in this situation, in this position for Manchester United.

"Then obviously there could be other managers who can be very attractive but very difficult to get."

Who Should Man Utd Hire?

Antonio Conte

Howe, 48, has been without a club since leaving Newcastle at the end of July, but his Premier League pedigree and ability to manage players have clearly caught the attention of the Red Devils.

Despite reaching considerable heights at Newcastle—aided, it must be said, by substantial Saudi investment—doubts persist over whether Howe can truly excel at the highest level, given that he has never managed a club of Manchester United's stature.

Although Nagelsmann has no prior experience managing in England, the 37-year-old is widely regarded for his tactical intelligence and progressive style of play, making him an attractive option in his own right.

Yet, much like Howe, the former Bayern Munich head coach is not without flaws, as demonstrated by a largely underwhelming spell managing the German national side.

Conte is undeniably the most high-profile name on the shortlist, particularly given his proven record of winning trophies in both England and Italy. That said, his volatile temperament makes it unlikely he would remain compliant if results began to deteriorate.

Of the three candidates being evaluated, Howe and Nagelsmann stand out as the more suitable options, particularly for a club desperately seeking stability, cohesion, and a clear identity.

Don't miss a story

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox.