Man Utd hold talks over Howe & Pochettino alternative with 75% win rate in 2026

Manchester United have explored a third potential managerial appointment alongside their interest in Mauricio Pochettino and Eddie Howe, with Michael Carrick’s future at Old Trafford hanging in the balance.

The Red Devils have endured a disastrous start to the Premier League season, winning just once in their opening ten matches and slipping into the relegation zone.

United’s hierarchy are now preparing to make a decision on the 45-year-old’s future.

Carrick facing Man Utd sack as Pochettino eyes job

REUTERS/Jon Super

Carrick’s position is expected to come under serious scrutiny when senior Manchester United officials meet in Monaco on Wednesday.

According to BBC Sport, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox will present their assessment of the club’s current situation to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, with a decision potentially arriving on Thursday.

Should the club decide to make a managerial change, former Tottenham and Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is among the leading candidates.

The Argentine would be interested in taking charge at Old Trafford despite extending his contract with the United States national team in August.

His agreement reportedly contains a release clause worth just under £7.5m, although further compensation would be required for his coaching staff.

Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is another potential candidate, but would also require a compensation fee to Newcastle despite leaving the Tyneside club earlier this year.

Man Utd hold talks over Nagelsmann appointment

Ben Jacobs reports that although Pochettino and Howe are the leading contenders, Julian Nagelsmann has also featured in United’s managerial discussions.

Nagelsmann has developed a reputation as one of European football’s most innovative young coaches following spells with Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, and United have held internal talks over his appointment.

He subsequently took charge of the German national team, overseeing their preparations for major international tournaments and continuing to build his managerial reputation.

The 39-year-old was replaced in the role by Jurgen Klopp following a penalty shoot-out defeat to Paraguay at this summer’s World Cup.

What sort of manager is Nagelsmann?

REUTERS/Peter Cziborra

Nagelsmann has earned widespread admiration for his attacking philosophy and tactical flexibility, with his teams regularly combining aggressive pressing with quick passing and movement in possession.

His approach places considerable importance on controlling midfield areas, creating space out wide and winning possession back quickly after losing the ball.

Nagelsmann’s ability to develop individuals has also been highlighted by former Hoffenheim sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel.

Former RB Leipzig chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff went even further when discussing the German’s managerial ability.

Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich, who worked under Nagelsmann at club and international level, also placed him among the finest managers of his career.

Whether he ultimately emerges as the club’s preferred candidate remains uncertain, but his credentials make him a compelling alternative to Pochettino and Howe as United consider another managerial change.