Pressure is rapidly increasing on Michael Carrick at Manchester United following a humiliating 1-4 defeat to Como in the Champions League. The Mancunians have lost two out of three European matches and amassed just seven points from their seven Premier League outings.
Captain Bruno Fernandes publicly criticised the coach's tactics. Respected insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that there is a significant shift in mood within the team.
For the first time, we have players at Manchester United who are not entirely happy with the current situation. This marks a big change from one, two, three, four, or even five weeks ago when the season had just started and United were already struggling.
Initially, there was a feeling that everyone at Manchester United was together, supporting the coach and sharing the same ideas heading in the same direction.
However, after that dreadful performance against Como, there's a sense that not all are pleased about the tactical project in place — and I’m including the coach in that.
Lisandro Martinez was quite sharp with his words following the game against Atletico, but he was targeting the hierarchy, not the coach. He expressed his frustration about not securing what he needed during the summer transfer window.
Yet, following the Como match, I can tell you that there’s a feeling among those close to Manchester United that not all players are satisfied with the current state of affairs — this isn’t solely about signings, but also about technical and tactical setups.
This is why I believe we need to be very cautious regarding the situation at Manchester United, as we are now entering uncharted territory. It’s not just a case of draws, losses, good performances, or poor displays; this is something quite different, which could shift the club into another realm altogether.
So, let's keep an eye on this situation. The game against Como is not just an ordinary defeat; it’s an embarrassment for Manchester United, and the locker room dynamics are crucial now. Therefore, monitoring the unfolding situation is essential.
Up until today, United have publicly and privately claimed they want to back the coach. That’s their stance, but remember, they said the same about Ruben Amorim and Erik ten Hag, both of whom, as we know, were sacked due to disappointing results.
We need to see what happens next and continue following this situation closely — we are certainly at a pivotal moment for the future of Manchester United’s project, as it has become incredibly challenging.
Sources suggest that the hierarchy is actively weighing up a move for a replacement. Sporting director Jason Wilcox has expressed admiration for Fabian Hurzeler’s work, while Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte are also in the frame and ready to step in immediately. Romano assessed the chances of these potential candidates.
Remember what I've been telling you over the past few weeks. I’m convinced there will be three names closely linked to the Manchester United job should it become available at any point.
Antonio Conte stands out, as he’s willing to take a mid-season role this year, which is a departure from what he's done for most of his career, save for his time at Tottenham. So undoubtedly, Conte is a name to watch regarding Manchester United.
Julian Nagelsmann is another coach many have been asking me about. He was previously considered by INEOS but was under contract, leading him to continue with the German national team. Now he’s available, so we could see if INEOS decides to pursue him again.
Next, in terms of German managers, Fabian Hurzeler is doing a fantastic job at Brighton. Within the Manchester United board, there’s someone who has great respect for Hurzeler, but for now, that’s all it is. He is currently fully focused on Brighton.
And naturally, Eddie Howe is available after leaving Newcastle. The English manager knows the league exceptionally well, presenting a different character compared to Conte and the others — he’s definitely more calm and relaxed, accustomed to working under tough conditions. Thus, he’s undoubtedly another name linked with Manchester United.
