Manchester United are reportedly considering Fabian Hurzeler, Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte as potential replacements for Michael Carrick, with the club’s managerial situation under scrutiny following a difficult run of results.
According to talkSPORT, the three coaches have attracted interest from different figures within the Old Trafford hierarchy as United assess their options amid growing pressure on Carrick.
United’s reported search comes after Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid, which extended their winless run to five matches across all competitions.
The result followed a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, adding to concerns about the team’s performances and Carrick’s tactical decisions.
The defeat also prompted defender Lisandro Martinez to criticise technical director Jason Wilcox over what he reportedly viewed as insufficient squad strengthening.
United will attempt to halt their poor run when they face historic rivals Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, with the result potentially adding to the scrutiny surrounding Carrick’s position.
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Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, the station’s chief live football anchor, Adrian Durham, suggested that Carrick’s departure could become increasingly difficult to avoid if results do not improve.
“Does it feel like an inevitability? Absolutely, that Michael Carrick will go,” Durham said.
He also questioned Carrick’s tactical decisions during the defeat to Atletico Madrid, arguing that some of the substitutions and changes contributed to United’s loss.
Among the names linked with the job, Nagelsmann and Conte are reportedly available for an immediate appointment.
Conte left Napoli by mutual consent in May, while Nagelsmann’s reported availability follows his departure as Germany coach after the country’s elimination by Paraguay in the round of 32 at the World Cup.
According to the report, United director of recruitment Christopher Vivell is advocating internally for Nagelsmann as a possible successor should the club decide to dismiss Carrick.
Hurzeler, meanwhile, remains under contract with Brighton and Hove Albion until 2029 after signing an extension in May.
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The German coach is reportedly favored by Wilcox and has overseen a strong start to the Premier League season, with Brighton winning four of their opening six matches to sit third in the standings.
Hurzeler has also strengthened his case through Brighton’s victory over United in the third round of the EFL Cup in September.
The three candidates offer different profiles, with Nagelsmann bringing international coaching experience, Conte an established record at club level and Hurzeler a growing reputation in the Premier League.
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