Manchester United Evaluates Six Managerial Candidates Amid Michael Carrick’s Interim Success
Manchester United is in the process of selecting their next manager, with interim coach Michael Carrick presenting a compelling case for the permanent role. While Carrick has demonstrated effective leadership, the club is reportedly taking a cautious approach in naming a successor to Ruben Amorim.
Current Situation at Manchester United
The identity of Manchester United’s next manager remains uncertain. Carrick has made significant strides during his interim tenure, but club officials are believed to be deliberating before making a final decision. Sources indicate that the club is not in a rush to appoint a full-time manager, especially given the team’s recent performances.
United’s management, including Director of Football Jason Wilcox and Chief Executive Omar Berrada, has opted for a measured strategy. Reports suggest that they have not yet reached out to other potential candidates, allowing Carrick’s success to inform their decision-making process.
Potential Candidates for the Role
Several names have emerged as potential candidates for the managerial position at Old Trafford. Among them are notable figures such as Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and Luis Enrique. Each candidate brings a unique set of experiences and achievements, which the club is evaluating as they consider the future direction of the team.
Ernesto Valverde
Ernesto Valverde, the former Barcelona coach, has confirmed his departure from Athletic Club at the end of the current season. Having faced challenges this season, Athletic Club is currently positioned ninth in La Liga. Valverde was previously considered for the interim role at United following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal in November 2021.
Mauricio Pochettino
Mauricio Pochettino, who previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, was a target for United back in November 2021. Despite being a long-term favorite among the club’s hierarchy, attempts to lure him to Old Trafford were unsuccessful. Pochettino’s tenure at PSG has kept him in the spotlight, but he has remained non-committal about his future.
Thomas Frank
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, reportedly held discussions with Thomas Frank in May 2024. The talks occurred just before United’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. Although Frank was a candidate for the role, United ultimately decided to extend Erik Ten Hag’s contract before appointing Amorim five months later.
Luis Enrique
Luis Enrique, a highly regarded coach, was considered a potential replacement for Solskjaer in 2021. However, his commitments with the Spanish national team during the 2022 World Cup complicated matters. Enrique’s coaching credentials, including two Champions League titles, make him an attractive option should he become available.
Thomas Tuchel
Thomas Tuchel was also on United’s radar before Amorim’s appointment. He had discussions with United officials in Monaco but did not reach an agreement. Tuchel has since taken on the role of England’s head coach, leading the national team into the 2028 European Championships.
Roberto De Zerbi
Roberto De Zerbi recently departed Marseille and has garnered interest from several clubs, including Manchester United. His successful stint at Brighton caught the attention of United’s management. However, discussions reportedly stalled after De Zerbi rejected an initial offer, and he is no longer considered a candidate for the United job.
As reported by www.mirror.co.uk.
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Published on 2026-03-29 11:00:00 • By Editorial Desk

