Oliver Glasner - who is out of contract at the end of the season - has been heavily touted as an option for the three-time European champions. Meanwhile, following his departure from Real Madrid, some have suggested Xabi Alonso could emerge as a candidate for the role.
But what if the make-up of Carrick’s interim backroom staff serves up a small clue on who United could look to hire instead? That’s because, alongside Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, and Travis Binnion, former England assistant manager Steve Holland has been ushered in as well.
Holland enjoyed a successful stint working with the Three Lions, most notably offering guidance to ex-England boss Gareth Southgate. The two formed a strong partnership, with England reaching two European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024, as well as the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.
Of course, it isn’t the first time Southgate has been touted as a potential United manager. Before Dan Ashworth was removed as sporting director, it’s said he was a big fan of Southgate and advocated for United to hire the ex-Middlesbrough and Aston Villa star.
However, even if the current INEOS hierarchy were determined to go down the Southgate path, tempting him back into management could prove a difficult task. That’s because Southgate has previously ruled out a return to the dugout, stating he’s enjoying his time away from the spotlight.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme last year, Southgate said: “I’ve had one of the most incredible jobs in football which also had a higher purpose because it was my country. That’s going to be very hard to replicate. Having had 37 years in football, I’m enjoying finding other areas where I think I might be able to make a difference.”
In the meantime, all of the attention will be on Carrick’s first match back at the club on Saturday, with rivals Manchester City making the short visit to Old Trafford. Following that, things don’t get much easier, as it’s an away trip to Arsenal, with matches against Fulham, Tottenham and West Ham to come.