Manchester United make contact with Didier Deschamps over potential managerial role

Manchester United have approached former France manager Didier Deschamps to ask whether he would consider taking charge of the club, but the Frenchman is not currently enthusiastic about returning to management.

The approach comes as United’s hierarchy searches for a new manager amid poor results and uncertainty under Michael Carrick. Deschamps has emerged as one of the names being considered as the club seek a coach capable of restoring their challenge for major honours.

According to Foot Mercato, contact was made with Deschamps in recent days to establish his position on succeeding Carrick. The former France boss is understood to be assessing his options carefully after stepping away from the pressures of football management.

Carrick remains under pressure despite Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Roma in the Champions League. The club are also in contact with other potential candidates, including Julian Nagelsmann and Unai Emery.

However, Emery appears more likely to extend his contract with Aston Villa, making it more difficult for Manchester United to secure their preferred successor to Carrick.

Deschamps discussed his future in June, before taking charge of France at his final World Cup, when he said: “I rule nothing out.” He had spent 14 years leading Les Bleus, before taking time away from the game to enjoy life with his family and friends.

Deschamps weighing up next move

Although his name has been linked with several European clubs seeking a new manager, Deschamps is not believed to be ready to accept an offer at present. Manchester United’s difficult circumstances, including declining results, supporter dissatisfaction and criticism of the club’s recruitment policy, have made the prospect of taking over at Old Trafford less appealing to him.

Deschamps has previous experience of English football as a player. He joined Chelsea from Juventus and played for the club during the 1999-2000 season.

He was also previously linked with the Real Madrid job. Deschamps was prepared to take up that opportunity, but the Spanish club ultimately appointed Jose Mourinho instead.

A return to coaching has not been ruled out, but Deschamps is in no hurry to decide on his next position. He is expected to continue considering the opportunities available to him and could wait until the next transfer window before choosing his new destination.

His future remains the subject of growing speculation, with his name continuing to be associated with more than one European club.

The developments come ahead of 08 November 2026, with Manchester United’s managerial situation remaining under close scrutiny in the Premier League.