Manchester United succession race takes shape as Nagelsmann and Howe emerge as leading candidates

Manchester United are considering Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe as the leading candidates to replace Michael Carrick if the uncertainty over the manager’s position results in his departure.

According to Sky Sports News reporters Daniel Khan and Rob Dorsett, the former Bayern Munich manager and former Newcastle manager are currently at the front of the club’s shortlist. Both coaches are available to take charge immediately and would not require Manchester United to pay compensation.

Howe resigned as Newcastle manager in July and subsequently said he wanted to step away from football for a period to recover his energy. However, sources cited by the British broadcaster say he could be prepared to open talks with Manchester United if the head coach’s position becomes vacant.

The Englishman may have support within the club. Manchester United sporting director Wilcox is understood to favour appointing a manager with experience of the Premier League, while former United sporting director Dan Ashworth knows Howe’s abilities from their time working together at Newcastle.

Nagelsmann, meanwhile, has an established working relationship with Christopher Vivell, Manchester United’s head of recruitment. The pair previously worked together at Leipzig, a connection that could strengthen the German’s position in the contest for the job.

Nagelsmann is also currently without a club appointment after leaving his role as Germany manager. According to the report, Germany were eliminated from the World Cup in the last 32 after losing to Paraguay during the summer.

The list of possible alternatives also includes Unai Emery, the manager of Aston Villa, and Antonio Conte, the former Chelsea and Tottenham manager. Neither is considered to be among the leading options at this stage.

Emery remains committed to his project at Aston Villa, according to information from Sky Sports News, making his potential appointment less likely than those of Nagelsmann or Howe.

Manchester United face Chelsea next Saturday, leaving the club only six days before their next match. The limited time available is increasing the pressure on the hierarchy to clarify Carrick’s position and decide who should lead the team going forward.

The club’s next move will depend on whether Carrick remains in charge, with developments behind the scenes expected to determine the direction of Manchester United’s coaching plans.