Manchester United are heading for another managerial shake-up, and the rumour mill is already running at full speed. With Michael Carrick reportedly on the way out, three big names dominate the Manchester United manager shortlist: Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann. Here is what is fact, what is rumour, and who looks most likely.
Why Man Utd Want a New Manager
Carrick became permanent head coach in May on a two-year deal after a strong interim spell. Now United sit 18th in the Premier League after a chaotic 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, and they have won just one league game since August.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported on X that United intend to relieve Carrick. He added that the club say no final decision has been made, but work on replacements has begun and a change is expected before the trip to Liverpool on November 22. TalkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs says Sir Jim Ratcliffe will lead a meeting in Monaco today, with Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox expected to recommend a change. The Glazer family must also sign off.
Mauricio Pochettino: The Early Favourite
The Sun says Pochettino would consider a Premier League return, and talkSPORT also reports he is interested. He has moved to favourite with the bookmakers.
He is not a free agent, though. Pochettino has coached the United States since September 2024 and signed a four-year extension in August, after the team reached the World Cup round of 16. Reports say his deal includes a release clause of around £10 million, which would not stop a club of United’s size. He also knows the league well from his time at Tottenham and Chelsea, and ESPN reports he has interviewed for the United job before.
Eddie Howe: The Safe Pair of Hands
The Athletic says Howe has admirers at Old Trafford. The former Newcastle boss is out of work, which makes any deal simple. He also knows the Premier League inside out, and United need that urgently in a relegation fight. The Sun reports he recently turned down an approach from Crystal Palace, so he may be keeping his options open.
Julian Nagelsmann: The Big-Name Gamble
The former Germany coach is also a free agent, and The Athletic says United have admirers of him too. Flashscore reported earlier this year that he intrigued United’s decision-makers. He is a bold, modern tactician, but he has never managed in England. That makes him the biggest gamble of the three.
Other Names in the Mix
ESPN reports that Kieran McKenna is also being considered. United’s search is wide open, and nothing is official.
What Happens Next
Everything depends on the Monaco meeting. If Carrick goes, expect United to move quickly, because the Liverpool game is only 12 days away. Until the club confirms anything, treat every name as a report, not a done deal.
One thing is clear: whoever takes over inherits a squad in the relegation zone, a nervous fanbase and no time to waste. United need a leader who can steady the ship now.
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