Ignore Carrick, MU finalizes top-tier coaching candidates worldwide

Michael Carrick had a perfect start in his role as Manchester United’s caretaker manager, yet nothing assures his official appointment since the club remains interested in several world-class coaches.

Under Carrick’s leadership, Manchester United immediately improved, securing impressive victories against major rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, before staging a dramatic comeback to beat Fulham 3-2 last weekend. Despite a 100% winning record, Carrick could still be replaced at the season’s end. The MU board is reportedly in no rush, preferring to carefully evaluate all options.

According to the BBC, Thomas Tuchel is among the notable candidates. He had discussions with MU both before and after the 2024 FA Cup final, at a time when Erik ten Hag’s future was uncertain. Ultimately, MU retained Ten Hag but dismissed him in October, appointing Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim before naming Amorim.

Tuchel is currently contracted with the England national team until the end of the 2026 World Cup. Therefore, if MU wishes to hire him, they will likely have to wait until after the tournament in the US, Canada, and Mexico. However, Tuchel’s contract ending in late July could affect MU’s preseason preparations.

MU has also been linked multiple times with Mauricio Pochettino, former Tottenham manager and current US national team coach. Pochettino was considered before Ten Hag’s appointment and again after Ten Hag’s dismissal, but both times the club chose a different path.

Furthermore, the BBC reports that Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil head coach) and Julian Nagelsmann (Germany head coach) are also highly regarded managers under MU’s consideration.

Besides the four candidates mentioned, other rumored names connected to the Old Trafford hot seat include Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner, former England manager Gareth Southgate, and PSG’s Luis Enrique.

Meanwhile, Carrick hopes to keep his winning streak alive to strengthen his case for the permanent role. MU will face Tottenham at Old Trafford next, and if Carrick secures a fourth consecutive win, calls for a long-term appointment will intensify.