Manchester United identify possible Carrick replacements before Bournemouth match

Manchester United have begun identifying possible replacements for head coach Michael Carrick, although he is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford, BBC Sport reported on Thursday, 22 October. The move follows United’s 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como on Wednesday and growing concern within the club about results and performances.

Carrick is carrying on as normal and has not been told of an imminent change, according to the BBC. Identifying candidates does not establish that United have decided to dismiss him; club sources told the broadcaster he would lead the team against Bournemouth.

Why Carrick’s position is under scrutiny

One source told the BBC the squad should be doing much better. Another said injuries did not excuse effort levels they considered concerning. Those assessments reflect views within the club, rather than a settled explanation for the results.

ESPN’s analysis attributes United’s prolonged decline to decisions across the club, including its ownership, executives, management and players. It reports that Sir Jim Ratcliffe took control of football operations after buying a 27.7% stake in February 2024, following years in which the Glazer family controlled the club. ESPN’s allocation of blame among those groups is its own judgment.

Possible successors and the Bournemouth match

BBC Sport reported that Eddie Howe, who left Newcastle in the close season, is open to returning to management with United. It also named Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann as interested in the job, and said United figures rate Unai Emery and Fabian Hürzeler, although bringing either of the latter two out of his current club would be difficult. The club has not announced a dismissal or an appointment.

United have also decided that Bruno Fernandes will remain captain and will not face discipline for criticising Carrick’s tactics after the Como loss, according to a separate BBC Sport report. Fernandes said it was for the head coach and his staff to identify problems during the game and make changes. The BBC said his comments disappointed some people at the club, while others understood his frustration.

Fernandes gave 10 post-match interviews in Como despite being substituted in the second half, the BBC reported. It was not immediately clear whether he would be selected against Bournemouth. Carrick’s expected presence on the touchline makes Sunday’s match the next immediate test for a team whose results have put his position under scrutiny.