Carrick remains in charge for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, but the 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como has intensified scrutiny of his position. United are reported to be assessing alternatives should they decide a change is necessary.
The Telegraph says more than one candidate believes the club needs firmer discipline and greater control over what players say publicly. The concerns follow recent comments from Lisandro Martínez about the club’s strategy and Bruno Fernandes questioning aspects of Carrick’s tactics.
A source close to one candidate said: “It’s clear they need order and discipline. The dressing room is out of control and that is the first thing to fix.”
Another source, described as a friend of a different candidate, made a similar point: “The players talk too much. United is one of the biggest clubs in the world and that has to be respected.”
The comments suggest that the challenge facing a new manager would extend beyond results. Whoever takes the job would need to rebuild confidence, establish clear expectations and manage the relationship between the squad and the club’s leadership.
Former Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann is among the names being discussed and is reportedly willing to consider an approach. However, he would want assurances about the structure above him, having previously withdrawn from consideration for jobs at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea over concerns about how those clubs were run.
Eddie Howe is another prominent candidate. He led Newcastle United to the Carabao Cup and two Champions League qualifications, but he left the club during the summer intending to take time away from football. He is understood to be open to hearing from United, although a return so soon is not certain.
Antonio Conte is also linked with the vacancy, while Unai Emery and Fabian Hürzeler have admirers. Hiring either of the latter two could prove difficult because they are currently employed by Aston Villa and Brighton respectively.
Conte recently issued a statement denying that any negotiations had reached an advanced stage. His availability therefore does not mean a deal is close.
Carrick has not been dismissed, and there has been no confirmed appointment process. The Bournemouth match may influence the immediate situation, but the reports indicate that Manchester United’s next manager could face a broader task: changing the dressing-room culture as well as improving performances on the pitch.