Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann have emerged as leading contenders to replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United head coach, with the club reportedly stepping up efforts to identify potential successors amid growing pressure on the current manager.
Carrick’s position has come under serious threat following United’s poor start to the season, including their recent humiliating 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Both Howe and Nagelsmann feature prominently on United’s list of potential replacements and are aware of the club’s interest.
Former Newcastle United manager Howe is reportedly open to taking charge at Old Trafford after leaving St James’ Park in the summer.
During his five-year spell at Newcastle, the 48-year-old guided the club to League Cup glory in 2025 and secured Champions League qualification twice.
Nagelsmann is another major candidate after leaving as Germany’s head coach following the 2026 World Cup.
The 39-year-old previously managed Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, winning the Bundesliga title with Bayern in 2022.
His reputation as one of Europe’s prominent young coaches could make him an attractive option as United consider their next managerial appointment.
Former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte is also reportedly interested in the position.
The Italian, who left Napoli earlier this year, has won league titles with Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli, while also leading Chelsea to the Premier League title in 2017.
His availability could make him a more straightforward option for United as they assess their options.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is another coach the Manchester United hierarchy admires, although his contract, which runs until 2029, could complicate any potential move.
Emery has strengthened his reputation through his work at Villa, guiding the club to Champions League qualification twice since arriving in 2022 and winning multiple Europa League titles during his managerial career.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler is also understood to be highly regarded at Old Trafford, but securing his services could prove difficult.
Como manager Cesc Fabregas has also entered the conversation after leading his side to a remarkable rise from Serie B to the Champions League.
The former Arsenal midfielder’s reputation as one of Europe’s promising young coaches has grown, particularly after Como’s 4-1 win over Manchester United, which further intensified scrutiny of Carrick.
Should United dismiss Carrick, the club would be searching for their eighth permanent manager or head coach since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
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