Manchester United have decided to keep Michael Carrick in charge for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea after reportedly considering dismissing him this week.
Carrick’s future came under renewed scrutiny following the 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth, a result which extended United’s winless run to eight matches in all competitions.
However, the club’s hierarchy stopped short of making a change after failing to reach agreement on a replacement.
Manchester United’s managerial decision remains unresolved
Reports indicate that United had been moving towards removing Carrick after the Bournemouth loss, but uncertainty over the next appointment delayed the decision.
Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox held discussions at Carrington on Monday before deciding that Carrick should be given at least one further match.
Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are understood to be the leading candidates under consideration. Support for Nagelsmann is reportedly growing internally, with recruitment chief Christopher Vivell said to favour the former Bayern Munich manager.
The situation leaves Carrick facing an important test at Stamford Bridge. A positive result could extend his stay, while another heavy defeat would increase pressure on United to act.
The two leading alternatives represent different approaches for the club. Howe would offer Premier League experience and a lower adaptation risk, while Nagelsmann would bring a younger, more tactically ambitious long-term project.
United’s decision to retain Carrick for now reflects the lack of agreement over that direction. Keeping him in charge while senior figures continue to weigh up alternatives risks prolonging uncertainty around the team and the club’s season.
