Manchester United’s season has been on the upswing since manager Ruben Amorim was sacked earlier this year and Michael Carrick was appointed interim manager.
However, despite his recent improvements in results and performances, it is believed that the club are planning on keeping him in the managerial role long-term beyond the end of the season.
The Sun reports that United bosses have drawn up a shortlist of five candidates to become Old Trafford’s permanent manager.
The list reportedly includes Oliver Glasner, Unai Emery, Andoni Iraola, Roberto de Zerbi and Julian Nagelsmann, all highly regarded managers in European football.
Michael Carrick faces uncertain future at Man United
Carrick’s appointment as interim manager was initially seen as a temporary measure to stabilize the club following Amorim’s difficult situation.
However, since taking over, the former United midfielder has brought noticeable improvements to the team’s structure and performance.
The players have responded positively to Carrick’s leadership, and some improved performances have allowed United to regain momentum in the Premier League and regain some confidence within the team.
Despite these developments, sources suggest that the club’s leadership remains committed to appointing a long-term head coach with a clearly defined tactical identity.
Five managers are keeping an eye on United
The shortlist reportedly includes experienced managers and progressive tacticians.
Oliver Glasner, currently at Crystal Palace, is expected to leave the London club at the end of this season. The Austrian coach was widely admired during his time at Eintracht Frankfurt, leading the club to UEFA Europa League glory in 2022.
Meanwhile, Unai Emery has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most tactically astute managers. His achievements at Aston Villa have been praised across the Premier League, and his success to date, including multiple Europa League wins, highlights his pedigree.
Andoni Iraola is currently impressing at Bournemouth and is regarded as one of the most progressive managers in the league thanks to his energetic tactical style.
Former Brighton and Marseille manager Roberto de Zerbi is also a candidate. Known for his possession-based football and innovative tactical approach, De Zerbi has attracted interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.
Finally, German national team coach Julian Nagelsmann remains a highly respected figure in the game. At just 38 years old, Nagelsmann has already managed clubs such as RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, and is regarded as one of the brightest coaches in modern football.
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