Manchester United are unlikely to appoint another interim head coach if they decide to replace Michael Carrick in the coming weeks, it is understood. Carrick’s future is under increasing pressure after he won just one of his last 10 games in charge, although he still retains support within the club’s hierarchy.
Some United officials remain behind Carrick, but there is a lingering concern that a change of head coach would not necessarily improve the team’s fortunes. The Champions League win over Roma on Tuesday night has provided some respite and lifted belief in both the changing room and the boardroom. It was United’s first win in 10 matches in all competitions.
Doubts remain over the team’s direction
There is a recognition, however, that one win on its own is not enough to turn the season around. United remain 17th in the Premier League, outside the relegation places only on goal difference. The victory over Roma was also chaotic. Having come back from 2-0 down, the side needed a re-taken Bruno Fernandes penalty to turn the tide. United’s bosses still have doubts about the team’s direction and its lack of consistency.
Carrick was given the top job on a two-year contract in May, after an impressive record as interim head coach that secured Champions League football. Many United fans called for the former midfielder to be given the role on a permanent basis. Even so, the club’s bosses insisted on a period of due diligence and spoke to other candidates before appointing him. United would prefer not to repeat that process with another interim head coach, as they seek a longer-term strategy for their most important football role.
Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada, who run United’s football operations, are still weighing up other options should they decide a change is needed. The international break next week offers a chance to pause and reassess. Many within the club see the home game against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday as a key moment for Carrick’s future.
Emery news a blow to United
Villa have announced they are close to agreeing a new long-term contract with Unai Emery, with a new long-term strategy built around the Spaniard and his staff. That development is a blow to United. Emery was high on the club’s list of potential future targets, admired for twice securing Champions League football for Villa and for winning the Europa League in May, the club’s first European trophy in over four decades. However, United had always recognised that prising Emery away from Villa Park would be difficult and expensive, particularly mid-season, and Villa’s owners are adamant he is going nowhere.
As a result, United have stayed open-minded about other candidates, with Julian Nagelsmann, Fabian Hurzeler and Eddie Howe prominent in their thinking. So far, United have not spoken directly to any other coach, as there is no current vacancy. The preferred outcome for everyone involved is that results improve and Carrick remains in charge.