Man Utd surprised everyone by reaching out to a manager no one has talked about for the Michael Carrick replacement job.
Manchester United have reached out to former France coach Didier Deschamps about possibly replacing Michael Carrick at Old Trafford, according to reports.
Deschamps, 58, stepped down as France’s coach after 14 years following the 2026 World Cup and is currently available.
Foot Mercato’s Santi Aouna says United have made recent inquiries about hiring the Frenchman as they keep looking for a new head coach. However, it seems it won’t be an easy decision. Deschamps isn’t completely keen on taking the job, but that doesn’t mean he’s out of the running. His future is still up in the air, and he’s willing to wait until the next transfer window—which might work well for United as they search for the right person.
For now, Carrick remains in charge and got a boost from United’s thrilling 3-2 comeback win over Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday. But in the Premier League, United are 17th after nine games and only just above the relegation zone on goal difference. If they lose to Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday—their last match before the international break—co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS might decide to step in.
Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are both seen as favourites to take over if United make a change. Reports say recruitment director Christopher Vivell prefers Nagelsmann, who recently resigned as Germany’s manager and used to coach Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, technical director Jason Wilcox seems to favour Howe, an English manager with Premier League experience, who left Newcastle after four and a half years this summer.
Antonio Conte has also been linked to the job after leaving Napoli, but he posted a detailed message on Instagram denying he’s talked to any club about managing them. He said no talks are at an advanced stage and dismissed rumors about his financial demands or personality, saying those reports aren’t true. Conte added that if a real opportunity comes up, that’s when he’ll have proper discussions with the club, focusing on what both sides need and his management style.
More updates to come…