Djibril Cisse has thrown Roy Keane's name into the ring as a potential successor to Michael Carrick amid growing doubts about the latter's position. Having worked under Keane at Sunderland, Cisse has a deep appreciation for the former United captain's style and leadership.
The pressure is mounting on Carrick, with Manchester United currently languishing in 16th place in the Premier League and suffering two heavy defeats in the Champions League.
Defeats against Como and Bournemouth have intensified speculation about a possible managerial change.
Names being floated as possible replacements include Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann, Unai Emery, Fabian Hürzeler, Antonio Conte, and Cesc Fabregas.
However, Cisse is urging the club to consider Keane.
He stated:
Roy Keane brings immense experience and a rich history.
He is a strong personality and a true club icon.
Having captained Manchester United during their golden period, his return could be a wise decision.
Cisse reminisced about his time working with Keane at Sunderland.
I really enjoyed working with him because he didn't judge me based on hearsay or what others said about my character.
He trusted me, and everything clicked between us, so I was quite disappointed when he left.
He's a manager I've truly respected and enjoyed working with.
According to Cisse, what they share is a direct approach.
We are quite similar.
We’re honest, we speak our minds, and then we move on.
If I’m doing something, I give it my all. If I say something, I mean it.
He’s exactly the same, and I genuinely enjoyed my time with him.
Despite Cisse’s endorsement, Keane is not currently on Manchester United's shortlist for the managerial role.
The Irishman hasn't managed a club since 2011.
Reports suggest that Eddie Howe is seen as a leading candidate, and there’s also a chance that Jason Tindall and Stephen Purches could return to his coaching staff.
The club is closely examining other options, including Nagelsmann, Hürzeler, Emery, Conte, and Fabregas.
While no final decision has been made regarding Carrick's future, the pressure continues to escalate.
