According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Manchester United could sack Michael Carrick if they fail to defeat Bournemouth on Sunday, with Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann reportedly emerging as potential replacements at Old Trafford.

Carrick is under increasing pressure following Manchester United’s disappointing 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday evening, a result that has raised further questions about his future as the club’s manager.

United have already been eliminated from the Carabao Cup and have collected just seven points from their opening seven Premier League matches this season, adding to concerns about their performances under the Englishman.

However, TEAMtalk reports that the club’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, remains supportive of Carrick, with the report suggesting that Manchester United are not currently planning to make an immediate change in the managerial position.

Despite this backing, the next four matches are expected to be crucial for Carrick, with the November international break approaching. The manager will be under pressure to deliver improved results as doubts about his future continue to grow.

Meanwhile, The Touchline reports that Carrick could be dismissed if Manchester United fail to beat Bournemouth at Old Trafford this weekend. According to the outlet, members of the club’s board believe some players have lost confidence in the manager and are questioning whether he can turn the situation around.

The report also claims that United have begun identifying potential replacements in case INEOS decides to end Carrick’s spell in charge.

Howe, Conte and Nagelsmann have all been linked with the position, with journalist Dean Jones telling FlashScore that Conte and Howe are reportedly interested in taking the job if the opportunity arises.

The Telegraph has also reported that Nagelsmann is keen on the Manchester United position. All three managers are currently without club managerial roles, according to the reports.

Despite the growing pressure on Carrick, former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson believes Manchester United should remain patient and continue supporting the manager rather than making another change.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Merson said: “To steady the ship, I think you’ve got to keep with the same manager. He’s proven that he did get results last year.”

Merson argued that United should give Carrick the opportunity to demonstrate how he can respond to difficult circumstances instead of repeatedly changing managers.

He also pointed to the financial limitations affecting the club’s recruitment plans, arguing that United cannot simply buy every elite player to solve their problems.

According to Merson, Manchester United need greater stability and a more balanced approach to rebuilding the squad rather than expecting an immediate return to the top of the Premier League.