What Man Utd’s season might look like if Michael Carrick stays, Bruno Fernandes makes a move, and three new players join
Michael Carrick’s role as Manchester United head coach doesn’t look very promising right now, but what if he stayed for the whole season?
After a strong run as interim coach at the end of last season, United fans were excited when Carrick got the permanent job in May. But just seven months later, many fans want him gone, and other managers are being linked with the role. So, what might happen if Carrick sticks around?
Right now, it seems likely Carrick will be let go after United’s home game against Aston Villa on Sunday, November 8, before the next international break. However, if he manages to improve results in the coming matches, the club might give him more time and wait until the season ends to decide on a new manager.
If United choose to keep Carrick, they’ll need to support him in the January transfer window by bringing in new players to help improve the team’s performance. A top priority would be signing a new left-back, which is one of the biggest weak spots right now.
One option could be RB Leipzig’s David Raum, an attacking left-back who could jump straight into the starting lineup, ahead of Luke Shaw or Patrick Dorgu. Raum is under contract until summer 2027, so he might be affordable if Leipzig can’t get him to extend it.
United also need to fix their defense quickly, and Leipzig might offer the right players for that. Along with Raum, center-back Castello Lukeba could be a great addition, bringing speed and calmness to the backline. Lukeba has experience playing with Leny Yoro for France’s Under-21 team, so they would likely work well together. He would be a bigger and pricier signing, as he’s signed until 2029.
For another January signing, Carrick might look at Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. With injuries to Benjamin Sesko and underwhelming performances from Joshua Zirkzee, United need a new forward. Mateta fits well since he has Premier League experience and is under contract until 2027. However, Palace might be hesitant to let him go during a tough season for them.
If Carrick stays, there are also questions about what will happen to team captain Bruno Fernandes and defender Lisandro Martinez. Both have spoken out against the club recently. After a 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid, Martinez criticized the club’s leadership, especially technical director Jason Wilcox, for lacking ambition. Fernandes was more direct in blaming Carrick and his tactics after a 4-1 loss in the Champions League.
Because of this unrest, it’s hard to see Fernandes or Martinez staying if Carrick remains. Both could be sold in January. Even if a new manager comes in, Martinez especially looks likely to leave in the next six months, with other clubs interested.
If all this happens, United could look very different in the new year, which might help them improve. If Carrick keeps his job and gets support, a finish around 10th to 12th place in the Premier League seems most likely, barring serious injuries or more off-field drama. With only seven points from nine games, it’s tough to imagine them rising much higher, and European football might be out of reach.
In Europe, United might get through the group stage but probably exit in the playoffs. That means an FA Cup run could be Carrick’s and the club’s best shot at saving the season and could become the main focus if things calm down in the league.
In short, if Carrick stays, the team will need some new players and clear backing to turn things around. Fans will be watching closely to see what happens next.