Antonio Conte denies advanced talks to replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager

File Image: Former Napoli manager Antonio Conte has denied being in advanced talks to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Former Chelsea and Napoli manager Antonio Conte on Friday denied being in advanced negotiations to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United, dismissing reports that he had demanded full control and made financial demands as unfounded.

Conte’s name has emerged among potential candidates to take charge at Old Trafford, with Carrick facing mounting pressure following United’s disappointing start to the season.

United sits 13th in the Premier League and 20th in the Champions League standings after Wednesday’s 4-1 defeat to Como, which extended its winless run across all competitions to seven matches.

“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte said in a statement.

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The 57-year-old Italian, who won the Premier League with Chelsea and managed Tottenham Hotspur, has been without a club since leaving Napoli after the 2025-26 season.

Conte guided Napoli to the Serie A title in 2024-25 and said he would take his time before deciding on his next managerial appointment.

“Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management,” he said.

Conte also rejected suggestions that he had already outlined financial conditions or demanded complete control at clubs interested in appointing him.

He maintained that discussions over contractual terms would take place only when a concrete opportunity arose.

Carrick, meanwhile, apologised to United supporters following the defeat to Como, while captain Bruno Fernandes criticised his team’s approach and called for greater aggression under pressure.

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Huerzeler, another name linked with the United job, also played down speculation surrounding his future.

“I have no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days and, beside that, I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick and what he has done with Manchester United the last season,” Huerzeler said.

Carrick remains in charge of United ahead of Sunday’s Premier League home fixture against Bournemouth.