Howe and Nagelsmann Lead Manchester United's List of Options if Carrick Goes

Manchester United's next move would be a fast one if Michael Carrick were removed as head coach, and BBC Sport has looked at who the club might approach. Two names stand out. Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are both high on the list of candidates.

The piece is framed as a contingency exercise rather than a report of any decision. It is a reminder that, should the club part ways with its head coach, the shortlist is already being shaped and the search would have to move quickly to avoid a gap on the touchline.

Any change at the top would carry weight beyond the next result. A new head coach would shape the squad's playing identity, influence recruitment in the transfer market and set expectations for the seasons ahead, so the choice would be watched closely by fans and by the club's hierarchy alike.