Manchester United are once again confronting a question that has followed the club through several turbulent seasons: who should be trusted to restore them to their former standing?

The pressure on Michael Carrick has intensified after a disastrous run of results undermined the optimism surrounding his appointment.

United’s 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday exposed serious problems on the pitch and fuelled doubts about the direction of the team.

Captain Bruno Fernandes also questioned the coaching staff’s tactical approach, adding another uncomfortable dimension to the growing scrutiny at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez recently voiced his frustration over the club’s recruitment decisions, highlighting concerns that extend beyond the manager alone.

With United’s leadership weighing up its options, the prospect of appointing a proven trophy winner is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Antonio Conte makes demands to become Manchester United manager

Antonio Conte wants complete control over Manchester United’s transfer decisions and the freedom to select his own coaching staff before considering a move to Old Trafford, according to Italian newspaper La Repubblica.

The report claims informal discussions between the former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager’s camp and United representatives continued following the Como defeat.

Conte’s demands would place significant responsibility in his hands.

In practical terms, that would mean Conte wanting considerable freedom to decide which players United recruit and which members of his backroom team accompany him.

The club’s directors are reportedly assessing those conditions before deciding whether to advance towards formal negotiations.

The demands could prove particularly significant for United, whose recent difficulties have raised questions about recruitment as well as coaching.

Martinez’s criticism of technical director Jason Wilcox following the defeat to Atletico Madrid highlighted frustration over the squad’s construction, while Fernandes’ comments after Como suggested that tactical decisions have also become a source of tension.

Conte would arrive with a reputation for demanding immediate improvement and expecting the club to support his ambitions in the transfer market.

The 57-year-old won the Premier League and FA Cup with Chelsea, led Inter Milan to the Serie A title in 2021 and guided Napoli to the Italian championship in his first season there.

However, his previous spells in England also demonstrate the potential complications.

His Tottenham tenure ended in March 2023 following a public outburst about the club’s mentality and leadership, while his time at Napoli ended last summer.

Conte’s intensity and desire for control could appeal to United’s need for a decisive rebuild, but they could also create friction if his expectations clash with the club’s existing recruitment structure.

Conte’s availability makes him an intriguing option, particularly if United decide that Carrick cannot reverse the current slump.