Manchester United have started looking at replacements for Michael Carrick, having struggled during the early stages of the Premier League season.
Carrick transformed United’s fortunes after replacing Ruben Amorim last season, and landed the permanent job courtesy of guiding his side to Champions League qualification, but they have failed to kick on, taking just five points from five games this term.
Although the Red Devils ultimately managed to escape with a point against Fulham at Craven Cottage last time out, as a result of Matheus Cunha’s late equaliser, Gary Neville was very critical of what he perceived to be a lack of will.
“I’ve watched Man United since the age of five and that’s the worst 15 minutes I’ve ever seen,” Neville said. “Absolutely pathetic. I’ve never seen such a lack of effort. What must Carrick be thinking?”
Cunha’s 89th-minute goal may have staved off a major inquest during the international break, but Carrick is now finding himself under increasing pressure, with Brighton boss Fabian Hürzeler and former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe in the frame to replace him.
However, ahead of United’s home fixture against bottom of the table Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, which could be viewed as the perfect chance to get three points on the board, a different former Premier League manager has entered INEOS’ thinking.
Man Utd eyeing Antonio Conte as Michael Carrick replacement
According to a report from Football Insider, Man United have now shortlisted Antonio Conte as a replacement for Carrick, as Old Trafford chiefs are known to be admirers of the ex-Chelsea boss, who is keen to get back into management.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke added: “If Manchester United do make a decision to look for a new manager and get rid of Michael Carrick, Antonio Conte will be one of the names in the frame. He is a proven winner, as shown by his spell at Chelsea and the great success he has had in Italy as well.
“He’s out of work, so it would be lot easier to try and bring him in. Obviously people were putting two and two together with Manchester United and him, but look, they are sticking with Carrick for now and they’re hoping that he can turn things around.”
|
Antonio Conte’s league record |
Matches |
Points per match |
|
Premier League |
132 |
2.03 |
|
Serie A |
264 |
2.20 |
|
Serie B |
131 |
1.71 |
The Italian, who has won 10 trophies across a glittering managerial career, lifted the Premier League title with the Blues in 2016-17, and he has since received plaudits for the impact he made from former player Pedro, who said: “With Antonio Conte, everything changed. He revolutionised how football was played in England with three at the back, and a low, compact block to press hard and execute quick counter-attacks.
However, Conte was sacked by Tottenham after just 16 months back in March 2023, following an explosive post-match press conference, so his track record in the Premier League is a little patchy, despite the success at Stamford Bridge.
