….Reports suggest the club is assessing managerial alternatives, although no decision has been announced regarding Michael Carrick’s future.
Manchester United have reportedly identified former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte as a potential replacement for Michael Carrick, amid scrutiny over the club’s early-season results.
According to reports from Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, United are considering Conte as an option if the club eventually decides to part ways with Carrick.
However, the reports do not indicate that Manchester United have made a formal decision to dismiss their current manager.
Carrick Faces Pressure After Difficult Start
Carrick secured the permanent Manchester United managerial position after guiding the team to third place in the 2025/26 Premier League season and helping the club qualify for the Champions League.
Reuters reported that he won 12 of 17 matches during his interim spell, which contributed to the club’s decision to appoint him permanently.
United, however, endured a challenging start to the 2026/27 campaign, including a defeat to newly promoted Hull City and a draw against Everton.
The team later suffered a 1–0 defeat to Manchester City in the Manchester derby on September 13, further increasing attention on Carrick’s position.
United secured a 4–0 Champions League victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah, but domestic results have continued to fuel speculation about the manager’s future.
Conte Emerges as Possible Alternative
Conte is reportedly being considered because of his extensive managerial experience and previous success in the Premier League.
The Italian manager guided Chelsea to the Premier League title during the 2016/17 season. His career has also included spells at Juventus, Inter Milan, Tottenham Hotspur and Napoli.
Conte is currently without a club after leaving Napoli at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Reports from Football365 and other football publications have linked him with a possible move to Old Trafford, although the reports describe a potential option rather than a confirmed appointment.
No Official Decision on Carrick
Despite the speculation, Manchester United have not announced plans to dismiss Carrick.
Reports attributed to journalist Fabrizio Romano indicate that the club’s hierarchy has no immediate plans to sack the manager.
The distinction between considering potential replacements and making an official managerial decision remains important.
For now, Carrick remains Manchester United’s manager as the club balances its Premier League campaign with Champions League and domestic fixtures.
