Five players Eddie Howe would quickly let go if he takes over from Michael Carrick at Man Utd, especially with Bruno Fernandes likely to leave.
If Eddie Howe takes over from Michael Carrick at Manchester United, he’d likely make some big changes to the team. Carrick is under a lot of pressure after United’s tough 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League, which stretched their winless streak to seven games. He’ll manage the team against Bournemouth on Sunday (October 25), but what happens after that is uncertain, with several managers in the running to replace him.
Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann, and Fabian Hurzeler are all being talked about as possible successors, but Eddie Howe stands out as a top candidate. Reports say that Jason Wilcox prefers Howe because of his strong Premier League experience. Howe left Newcastle United in July, saying he was tired and needed a break. However, after four and a half successful years there—including winning the Carabao Cup in 2025—he might be open to the Manchester United job if he’s sure about the club’s future plans and can have a say in transfers.
Right now, Carrick is managing a divided team. Things got even worse after Bruno Fernandes made some critical remarks about Carrick’s tactics recently. If Howe comes in, Fernandes is one player who would probably leave. His contract runs until June 2027 with an option for another year, but given his age (32) and high wages, extending his deal wouldn’t be the smartest move. His recent comments show there are deeper problems in the squad.
Lisandro Martinez would likely be shown the door too. His deal runs out next summer, and the club has no plans to renew it after his controversial comments about the club’s leadership.
Fernandes and Martinez are key figures in a locker room that seems out of control, but they’re not the only stars Howe might want to move on. Marcus Rashford is also on the list. After a strong loan at Barcelona, he was linked with a move away in the summer, but no club could meet his £325,000-a-week wages. Carrick brought him back into the first team, but Rashford hasn’t scored or assisted in eight games. His contract runs until June 2028, and next summer could be the last chance for United to sell him for a good price.
Long-time player Luke Shaw will probably leave in 2027 after 12 years at the club. Despite finally playing a full season last year, his performance this season has dipped, so it’s time to move on. Diogo Dalot is also likely to go. His contract also runs until 2028, but he hasn’t been consistent enough to earn Howe’s trust.
In short, if Howe takes charge, expect some big changes to help rebuild a stronger Manchester United squad.