Manchester United are reportedly considering Julian Nagelsmann, Antonio Conte and Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler as possible replacements for Michael Carrick if the club decides to change managers.
According to talkSPORT, different figures within United’s hierarchy favour the three coaches as the club assesses a difficult run of results.
United’s 2–0 defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday extended their winless sequence to five matches across all competitions, increasing scrutiny of Carrick’s position.
Five-Match Winless Run Raises Pressure
The defeat followed a 1–1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, with concerns growing over United’s performances and tactical decisions.
Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, the station’s chief live football anchor, Adrian Durham, said Carrick needed a significant improvement in results.
“Does it feel like an inevitability? Absolutely, that Michael Carrick will go,” Durham said.
Durham also questioned changes made during the Atletico match, arguing that they contributed to the defeat. His comments represent his assessment rather than an announcement by the club.
United’s next opportunity to respond comes against Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday.
Nagelsmann Reportedly Backed by Vivell
The report identified United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell, as an internal supporter of Nagelsmann.
The former Germany coach is said to be available following his departure after the national team’s World Cup elimination by Paraguay in the round of 32.
Conte was also identified as an available candidate after leaving Napoli by mutual consent in May.
Hurzeler Linked Despite Brighton Contract
Hurzeler reportedly has support from United technical director Jason Wilcox but remains under contract with Brighton until 2029, having signed an extension in May.
Brighton have won four of their opening six Premier League matches to sit third, according to the report.
They also defeated United in the third round of the EFL Cup in September.
| Manager | Reported situation | Reported United connection |
|---|---|---|
| Julian Nagelsmann | Available after leaving Germany | Backed internally by Christopher Vivell |
| Antonio Conte | Available after leaving Napoli in May | Identified among potential replacements |
| Fabian Hurzeler | Contracted to Brighton until 2029 | Reportedly favoured by Jason Wilcox |
No Appointment Decision Announced
The Atletico defeat also reportedly prompted defender Lisandro Martinez to criticise Wilcox over the level of squad strengthening.
However, the account did not establish that United had decided to dismiss Carrick or made a formal approach to any of the three managers.
For now, Carrick faces the immediate task of ending the winless run against Leeds as attention remains on the team’s response.
Get breaking news and latest updates directly on WhatsApp
