Manchester United are assessing potential managerial alternatives as Michael Carrick comes under pressure after a poor opening to the 2026-27 Premier League season, with Antonio Conte, Kieran McKenna and Oliver Glasner among the possible replacements.
United have taken four points from their first four league matches and sit 13th after losing to Hull City and Manchester City, drawing with Everton and beating Ipswich.
There has been no confirmation that INEOS intend to dismiss Carrick. However, further deterioration in results could prompt the club to consider a change.
The difficult start represents a sharp reversal from Carrick’s first spell in charge last season. After taking over on an interim basis, he won 12 of 17 matches and guided United to third place before being handed a permanent contract in May.
Conte leads potential Manchester United manager replacements
Conte is understood to be the most prominent name linked with the position. The former Chelsea manager left Napoli in May and is available, while reports in Italy have placed him at the top of United’s list should they decide to act.
The Italian would bring a record of success at the highest level, having won league titles with Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Napoli. His achievements include Chelsea’s 2016-17 Premier League triumph.
Conte’s appointment would also carry a clear demand for commitment from the club. His highly structured style and forceful personality would require United to build decisively around his methods rather than regard him as another temporary solution.
McKenna offers a different route
McKenna would represent a more developmental option. The 40-year-old stepped down as Ipswich manager in June to take a break from management after overseeing three promotions in four seasons, including two separate rises to the Premier League.
He also has an established connection with Manchester United, having previously worked at Old Trafford as part of the first-team coaching staff. McKenna was among the candidates considered during the club’s search for a permanent manager earlier in 2026.
His teams have been associated with progressive football and the development of players, although taking charge of United would bring a considerably greater level of scrutiny.
Glasner another option under consideration
Glasner is currently managing Nottingham Forest, which could make any approach more complicated. He was nevertheless considered by United after Ruben Amorim’s dismissal earlier this year.
The Austrian won the FA Cup and Conference League with Crystal Palace before joining Forest this summer. His sides are known for their intensity, organisation and threat on the counter-attack — qualities United have often lacked.
Conte therefore offers the strongest record of winning major honours, McKenna brings familiarity and long-term potential, while Glasner has Premier League experience and recent silverware.
United’s immediate challenge is to decide whether four matches represent a temporary dip or evidence of a deeper problem. Carrick’s results last season earned him the permanent role, and his current contract only began in May.
Should the situation reach breaking point, the club’s next decision will need to be guided by a clear footballing plan. Another managerial change without addressing recruitment, squad balance and consistency would risk prolonging the cycle of upheaval at Old Trafford.
