Michael Carrick's future as Manchester United head coach is all but over after a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The loss extended United's winless run to eight matches, leaving them just above the Premier League relegation zone and sealing the worst-ever start to a top-flight season under Carrick.
Sky Sports News reports that United's hierarchy were already exploring alternatives before Sunday's result and will now accelerate that process. Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada are set to recommend a successor to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Former players Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher both called for an immediate decision. Neville predicted Carrick will be sacked, stating it is "probably necessary" despite likely angering fans, while Carragher said Carrick should be relieved of his duties "tonight" for the good of both the club and the coach.
Should Carrick depart, Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe are the front-runners. Both are available immediately and require no compensation. Howe, who left Newcastle in July citing a need to recharge, is understood to be open to talks. Nagelsmann has prior ties with United's head of recruitment Christopher Vivell from their time together at RB Leipzig.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing