Following Manchester United’s heavy Champions League defeat to Como, speculation has mounted regarding manager Michael Carrick’s future at the club. As media outlets discuss potential successors, reports have emerged questioning Carrick’s morning schedule at the training ground.
Managerial Speculation and Potential Replacements
Media reports have circulated regarding who might succeed Carrick should leadership make a change following the difficult start to the campaign. According to talkSPORT, former Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has already been sounded out for preliminary discussions regarding the position.
Additional candidates have also drawn attention, as talkSPORT understands that Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler is viewed as an option by figures at Manchester United due to his admirers within the club. However, Hurzeler recently signed a new long-term contract with Brighton, and his current club remains unfazed by the ongoing speculation.
Meanwhile, Antonio Conte is prepared to take charge at Old Trafford after leaving Napoli in June. Representatives for the Italian coach have informed Manchester United of his interest in the role, although the club has not yet expressed interest in him. Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is also understood to be a candidate who could take the job as a free agent.
Training Ground Absence and Squad Schedule
Amid mounting pressure, reports noted that Carrick did not arrive at the Carrington training ground at 7.30am as he normally would. Furthermore, discussion has arisen around the team’s schedule following the European fixture.
Despite the magnitude of the defeat against Cesc Fàbregas’ side—which prompted captain Bruno Fernandes to criticize team tactics and led Carrick to question the running of his players—sources told ESPN that the squad will take their pre-arranged day off. The players are set to return on Friday to prepare for Sunday’s Premier League home match against Bournemouth.
