According to a report by The Guardian on November 10, 2026, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has identified a former Premier League manager as a potential candidate to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United, with Eddie Howe emerging as an important name in the club's managerial discussions.

The Manchester United hierarchy are reportedly considering their options as pressure continues to mount on Carrick following a disappointing run of results. The club's poor performances have raised serious questions about his future, with senior figures expected to discuss whether a managerial change is necessary.

According to the report, Jason Wilcox, Manchester United's director of football, considers Howe his preferred candidate to take charge at Old Trafford if the club decides to part ways with Carrick.

Wilcox is believed to have been impressed by Howe's previous work in the Premier League, particularly his achievements during his time at Newcastle United. The English manager guided Newcastle back into the Champions League on two occasions and helped the club win the Carabao Cup before leaving his position in the summer of 2026.

Howe is currently without a club, meaning Manchester United would not need to negotiate a compensation package with another team if they decided to appoint him.

Meanwhile, a separate report by The Sun claims that Ratcliffe would prefer an English manager to lead Manchester United. The INEOS chief reportedly believes that England's biggest football club should have a homegrown manager, making Howe an attractive option.

However, Howe is not the only candidate being considered. Mauricio Pochettino, who is currently managing the United States national team, has also been strongly linked with the position and is reportedly viewed as the leading contender.

Former Bayern Munich and Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann is another name mentioned in discussions about the potential vacancy.

The situation surrounding Carrick is becoming increasingly uncertain. According to reports, chief executive Omar Berrada and Wilcox are expected to meet Ratcliffe in Monaco, where they could recommend that the club makes a change in the dugout.

The final decision has not yet been officially announced, and Carrick is reportedly expected to be informed face-to-face if the club decides to dismiss him.

For now, Howe's name remains firmly in the conversation, particularly because of Wilcox's reported preference and Ratcliffe's alleged desire to appoint an English manager.