Nagelsmann leads candidates to replace Carrick at Manchester United

Julian Nagelsmann, the former head coach of Germany, has emerged as a candidate to take over at Manchester United, with pressure mounting on manager Michael Carrick following a series of disappointing results, according to TalkSport.

A report published on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, stated that Manchester United have begun to explore their options in anticipation of parting ways with Carrick, following the team's heavy defeat against Como by four goals to one in the UEFA Champions League, extending their winless streak to seven consecutive matches across all competitions.

The report clarified that Julian Nagelsmann, aged 39, is admired by some officials within the club and was one of the prominent options considered before the appointment of Michael Carrick as permanent manager last May. However, his commitment to coaching the Germany national team at that time, along with the strong finish that Carrick achieved in his interim season, prevented negotiations from progressing.

He added that the German is not the only name being considered, as Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton's manager, is attracting interest within the club, while representatives of Italian coach Antonio Conte have expressed their willingness to take on the role after his departure from SSC Napoli in June, although Manchester United have not shown any official interest in signing him yet.

Eddie Howe, former Newcastle manager, is among the candidates, alongside Maurício Pochettino, coach of the United States national team, and Kieran McKenna, former Ipswich manager. The name of Simone Inzaghi, coach of Al-Hilal, also stands out as he faces increasing pressure and could become available if he is dismissed.

In contrast, Alex Crook, chief football correspondent for TalkSport, has warned against signing Nagelsmann, pointing out that his recent experience with Germany raises some concerns, as well as his personality, which he described as volatile, and the challenges he may face in dealing with club officials like Jason Wilcox and Omar Barada.

These developments come as Carrick faces increasing pressure, particularly after team captain Bruno Fernandes criticized his tactical approach following the defeat to Como, which adds to the uncertainty surrounding the coach's future at the helm of Manchester United.