Manchester United have a decision to make over whether to appoint a new manager or stick with Michael Carrick if results continue to improve under the former midfielder
Unai Emery
Unai Emery could become an option for Manchester United(Image: AP)
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Potential Manchester United managerial candidate Unai Emery reportedly features highly on Real Madrid's shortlist should they choose not to continue with Alvaro Arbeloa next season. During Ruben Amorim's shaky spell at Old Trafford, there was speculation that Aston Villa boss Emery could replace him and he was also heavily linked with the job during Erik ten Hag's struggles at United back in 2024.
Emery's work in Birmingham has been widely praised, having guided his side to the Europa Conference League semi‑finals while securing Champions League football for the first time since 1983 in the 2024/25 season. The Villans reached the quarter‑finals before bowing out of the competition, losing 5–4 to Paris Saint‑Germain on aggregate.
With United possibly on the hunt for a new manager in the summer, should interim head coach Michael Carrick not be kept on, Emery could become an option. Real have reportedly already made the first move by approaching Emery to enquire about his availability, according to [Spanish journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon.](https://twitter.com/Ramon_AlvarezMM/status/2016784082529616314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026 )
It's claimed that if the Spanish giants decide on a managerial change in the summer, Emery would be 'the best positioned' for the job, and conversations are reported to have taken place in 'recent days'.
Despite the impressive impact of interim boss Carrick so far, United have said the former midfielder will lead the team for the remainder of the season. However, if his strong form continues, there is a chance the club's stance could change.
Carrick stepped in to replace Amorim earlier this month, following a brief caretaker spell by Darren Fletcher.
He has already made a strong impression with victories over Manchester City and Arsenal. However, the plan, for now, is for him to step down before the 2026/27 campaign begins.
Even if the former Reds midfielder doesn't land the job full‑time, that doesn't necessarily mean United will target Emery.
The Spaniard is not among the leading candidates, but he is around 20/1 in the manager odds with William Hill.
There has also been no indication that Emery will leave Villa, having admitted he is determined to help the Claret and Blue side win trophies.
"I am dreaming to be here getting trophies and the Europa [League] is one objective we have this year," he said last week.
The Villa boss is under contract at Villa Park until the summer of 2029.