Michael Carrick may be fearing for his chances at the Manchester United job as Ineos begin speaking to alternatives.
A 2-1 defeat to Leeds United has put pressure on Michael Carrick in Manchester United’s race for Champions League qualification.
Carrick has taken United up to third in the Premier League table, but with six games remaining in the 2025/26 season, there is still work to be done to secure a return to the top level of European football.
There were question marks over Carrick’s in-game management against Leeds, and Ineos are certainly keeping their options open.
Michael Carrick in suit for Manchester United
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
What is your MESSAGE to Michael Carrick after the defeat vs Leeds?
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Michael Carrick reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Leeds United at Old Trafford in 2026 in Manchester, England.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Man Utd to approach Julian Nagelsmann over head coach role
According to GiveMeSport, United are set to reach out to Julian Nagelsmann as a potential head coach option.
Nagelsmann is open to managing United and is interested in taking a job in the Premier League.
He is currently in charge of the Germany national team and is set to lead them into the 2026 World Cup this summer. However, United could make a move to appoint Nagelsmann after the tournament.
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The report adds that Luis Enrique is a dream appointment for United, but he is currently tied up in his project with Paris Saint-Germain.
Nagelsmann has more experience than Carrick and has a better record at top European clubs, but his lack of Premier League experience could – and should – be a concern.
Where does Julian Nagelsmann rank in Man United’s new manager shortlist?
Would you be concerned of his similarities with Ruben Amorim and Erik ten Hag?
Julian Nagelsmann at FIFA World Cup 2026 Official draw
Photo by Michael Regan – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Michael Carrick is falling behind in head coach race
The invincibility bubble around Carrick has seemingly burst over the last few weeks.
After a sensational start to his interim spell at Old Trafford, United have now won just one of their last four Premier League matches.
READ MORE: Julian Nagelsmann has just ticked off a major Man Utd box with his latest call for German national team
While United players support Carrick’s appointment, Ineos may be having second thoughts.
The likes of Nagelsmann and Enrique seem to be Ineos’ priority, and all of a sudden, Carrick looks like a back-up option if other targets aren’t available.
That could all change again, though, in the next six matches. It is up to Carrick to change the narrative.
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