Carrick’s position is under mounting pressure after United were beaten 3-0 by Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday. It was their sixth defeat in 12 matches, leaving them only one point above the Premier League relegation zone, according to The Sun.
Senior figures at United met on Monday to discuss the situation. Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada were among those involved, as the club weighed its response to Carrick’s results.
Howe is said to be Wilcox’s preferred option, with the director of football believed to favour a manager who has extensive Premier League experience. The Sun reports that Howe has been watching United matches and making notes in case the job becomes available.
The 48-year-old left Newcastle United in the summer and is currently out of work. He previously guided the club into the Champions League and won the Carabao Cup.
However, Howe is not the only name under consideration. Julian Nagelsmann has also been discussed, with United’s recruitment leadership reportedly favouring the Germany coach. Antonio Conte has been mentioned as another possibility, although no formal approach to the Italian has been made, according to the report.
The differing preferences point to a split within United’s decision-makers over the profile of manager required. Wilcox is said to value experience of the English top flight, while the recruitment department is looking at Nagelsmann.
Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has previously favoured the appointment of an English manager, believing the club should be led by a leading domestic coach. That preference could strengthen Howe’s position if United move to replace Carrick.
For now, Carrick remains in charge, but the immediate focus is on whether he will still lead the team for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea. The Sun also reports that he is due to attend a behind-closed-doors Under-21 fixture against Hull City at Carrington, despite the first team’s usual day off after a match.
Manchester United have yet to announce a decision, and Howe’s reported preparation does not mean an appointment is imminent.