Manchester United are considering new options as uncertainty continues to surround Michael Carrick’s future, with Unai Emery now appearing unlikely to leave Aston Villa.
The Red Devils are facing a crucial period following their disastrous start to the Premier League season, sitting 17th in the table and only outside the relegation zone on goal difference.
Carrick was handed a much-needed boost on Tuesday evening as United produced a dramatic comeback to defeat Roma 3-2 in the Champions League, but the November international break affords the club another chance to assess his position.
Carrick urges Man Utd players to build on Roma comeback
United appeared destined for another disappointing evening when they entered half-time two goals behind against Roma at Old Trafford.
However, a Bruno Fernandes penalty and two late goals from Matheus Cunha secured a remarkable victory, ending a nine-match winless run across all competitions.
Carrick was delighted with the resilience shown by his players, but insisted that one result would not solve United’s problems.
“It’s one win so we’re not getting too carried away but it was an important one for us,” he said.
The former midfielder also highlighted the significance of the occasion for his younger players, several of whom had never experienced such a memorable European night.
“We have to take stock, we have to stay calm and prepare for another big game on the weekend [against Aston Villa].”
United face Emery’s Villa on Sunday in what could prove a decisive fixture for Carrick, with another defeat potentially increasing the pressure on the 45-year-old.
Emery is reportedly close to extending his contract at Villa Park beyond 2029, removing one of United’s preferred managerial candidates from consideration.
Hürzeler among Man Utd managerial candidates
According to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett, United’s hierarchy are continuing to assess potential replacements for Carrick despite their preference for him to turn things around.
Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe remain prominent options, while Emery is seemingly off the table, as is another interim solution.
Dorsett has also named Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler as a figure attracting interest from those making decisions at Old Trafford.
The 33-year-old has established himself as one of English football’s most promising young managers since arriving at Brighton from St Pauli in 2024.
Unlike Howe and Nagelsmann, United would face the added complication of negotiating his departure from another Premier League club. Brighton also handed the German a new contract in May, extending his commitment to the Seagulls until June 2029.
There have been no formal approaches from United to any potential replacement, with Carrick retaining support despite the club’s difficult league position.
Hürzeler praised for “exceptional” Brighton performances
Hürzeler has enjoyed considerable success at Brighton, becoming the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history when appointed aged 31.
Brighton finished eighth in his first campaign, while the German was named Premier League Manager of the Month this September after overseeing an unbeaten run that included an impressive 3-0 victory over Arsenal.
Former Brighton striker Glenn Murray recently praised Hürzeler’s development and the performances of his players.
“Hurzeler has come out the other side and the way he has got this group of players performing is exceptional.”
The German’s attacking approach and record of working with emerging talent could make him an appealing candidate for a club famed for their academy to first-team pipeline.
However, Brighton would be reluctant to lose a manager they have recently backed with a long-term contract.
