Manchester United have a new wildcard manager target with Michael Carrick sack decision imminent

Manchester United are considering several candidates as they assess their options for the managerial position, but there are reservations about a number of the names linked with the job.

Eddie Howe has for some time been considered the frontrunner for the role, should Michael Carrick get sacked, but The Independent report that the former Newcastle manager is less highly regarded by Man Utd than other reports have suggested.

Julian Nagelsmann is the other highly prominent name, though his reputation has suffered following his time at Bayern Munich and with the Germany national team. Man Utd’s interest is said to be driven by the club’s recruitment chief, Christoph Vivell, but others are less convinced amid concerns over Nagelsmann's relationship with players during his time with the national team.

The same concerns court Antonio Conte, who would bring considerable experience, having won league titles with four different clubs, but have seen many of his previous jobs end in acrimony. The Independent adds that there are doubts that Man Utd’s squad is strong enough to meet the Italian’s demands.

A move for Didier Deschamps reportedly failed earlier in the week, with the former France head coach reluctant to return to club management.

Sebastian Hoeness

AFP/Getty

A new wildcard name in the frame is Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness, who his appointment would be considered another big gamble after the likes of Ruben Amorim failed spectacularly. The Independent also mention Brighton's Fabian Hurzeler, but it is feared he could find it difficult to replicate his success on the south coast should he move to Old Trafford.

Como manager Cesc Fabregas is considered highly unlikely, with Arsenal reportedly viewing him as a potential long-term successor to Mikel Arteta.

Carrick staying has also not been ruled out. The same report notes that Man Utd’s decision-making has partly been influenced by performance data, which points to narrow margins and missed chances having contributed to Man Utd languishing around the relegation zone.

Up next is an Aston Villa who are firing on all cylinders under Unai Emery, but have won just once at Old Trafford in 15 years. The win over Roma in midweek has offered somewhat of a reprieve, but another damaging result on Sunday could still spell the end of Carrick.

A decision on Carrick’s future is expected to come during the international break.