The leading candidate for the Manchester United head coach position emerges

Manchester United intends to secure a permanent head coach this summer, though their choices are becoming increasingly limited.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is losing support from various sides and is also narrowing down the options for finding a new permanent head coach for Manchester United.

The billionaire has just gone through a turbulent week. His controversial remarks claiming that immigrants have “colonized” the UK sparked intense criticism and even created divisions within the club. Manchester United later issued a statement in response without directly mentioning his name.

However, Ratcliffe’s difficulties go beyond personal image damage or the risk of FA investigation over comments deemed harmful to football’s reputation. If he remains co-owner this summer—which is still uncertain—he will be forced to announce a long-term successor for Ruben Amorim after the coach was dismissed.

The problem is many names on his target list are becoming less feasible. Thomas Tuchel was a top choice, but he has just extended his contract to continue leading England after the World Cup. Unless England suffers a major setback in North America and Tuchel loses his job, which is considered unlikely, the chances for Old Trafford’s side are almost closed.

Carlo Ancelotti is also on the radar, but he is reportedly about to sign a new deal with Brazil’s national team. Gareth Southgate, although supported by some in United’s leadership, is not keen on the role. Unai Emery has no intention of leaving Aston Villa, and Oliver Glasner’s reputation has declined significantly recently. Luis Enrique was linked but is likely to extend with PSG.

Julian Nagelsmann is also not an easy option as he is contracted with Germany until 2028. Given this situation, all possibilities seem to be leaning towards Michael Carrick.

Surprisingly, the English strategist is becoming the favorite for the hot seat. Not only because he has an unbeaten streak of five matches as interim coach, but also because other potential candidates have withdrawn for various reasons. With the positive marks he has made recently, Carrick might be the sensible choice.

And if things continue in this direction, he might not only be the best option but also the only one the "Red Devils" management can consider.