Manchester United consider Julian Nagelsmann as Michael Carrick faces decisive Bournemouth test

Julian Nagelsmann has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick if Manchester United decide to dismiss their manager, with Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth potentially crucial to his immediate future.

Telegraph Sport reports that Nagelsmann, the former Germany and Bayern Munich manager, would be interested in taking charge at Old Trafford should the club make a change.

United maintain that Carrick retains their support despite a poor start to the season. They have won only two of their 11 matches in all competitions and are without a victory in their past seven games.

However, pressure on Carrick increased significantly after United suffered a 4-1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League. The result was followed by criticism from captain Bruno Fernandes, who also raised concerns about the team’s tactics.

Sunday’s fixture against Bournemouth will be played at Old Trafford, but United have not beaten their opponents for more than three years. Bournemouth claimed their first league victory last week under Marco Rose, adding further importance to a match that could have a major bearing on Carrick’s short-term position.

There is a view among sources that, if United do decide to act, they would need to appoint a bigger name with a stronger personality. That possibility is not regarded as inevitable, however, with arguments in favour of giving Carrick more time to improve the team.

One option would be to retain him at least until the next international break in mid-November, allowing him an opportunity to change the club’s fortunes before a decision is made.

Frustration at United is growing not only because of the results but also because of the approach adopted by Carrick and his assistant, Steve Holland. Fernandes has questioned aspects of their tactics, while the team has also been criticised for a lack of intensity, enthusiasm and pressing.

The concerns have left Carrick under sustained scrutiny as the club assess whether he can restore balance to the side. The Bournemouth match is therefore expected to be an important test of both the manager and the methods being used on the pitch.

Nagelsmann is currently available after leaving his role as Germany manager following the national team’s disappointing performance at this summer’s World Cup. His willingness to consider the Manchester United job makes him one of the most prominent alternatives should the club conclude that a change is required.