Manchester United are reportedly considering Eddie Howe as Michael Carrick’s replacement, with the former Newcastle United manager understood to be available to take charge immediately if Carrick is dismissed.
Howe is said to be interested in the Old Trafford position and could arrive as early as next week should United’s hierarchy decide to make a change. Julian Nagelsmann is also under consideration, but Howe is emerging as a leading candidate.
Carrick is under increasing pressure after a disappointing start to the campaign. United’s meeting with Aston Villa could prove decisive, with another poor result potentially prompting the club to act during the international break.
Eddie Howe emerges as Manchester United contender
Howe is currently without a club after leaving Newcastle United shortly before the start of the season. The 48-year-old is reportedly ready to consider a new challenge after believing he had taken Newcastle as far as possible during his five years in charge.
His experience of managing in the Premier League is understood to be a major attraction for Manchester United. Howe guided Newcastle back into the Champions League and helped the club win the Carabao Cup during his tenure.
Howe is reportedly the bookmakers’ favourite to succeed Carrick, although Nagelsmann remains among the principal alternatives. The German has strong backing within United’s recruitment department, while Jason Wilcox is believed to favour Howe.
Antonio Conte and Unai Emery have also been linked with the vacancy, but Howe’s Premier League background and immediate availability could work in his favour. Carrick’s results in the coming days are expected to determine whether United move forward with a managerial change.
