Manchester United's search for their next permanent manager has narrowed down after two candidates took themselves out of contention by agreeing new contracts with their current employers
BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 10: In this image released on February 12,2026, England manager Thomas Tuchel poses for a photograph at St Georges Park on February 10, 2026 in Burton-upon-Trent, England. It has been announced that he and his coaching staff have extended their contracts to 2028. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Thomas Tuchel recently extended his deal with England(Image: Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
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Carlo Ancelotti has ruled himself out the race to become Manchester United's next manager by agreeing to extend his deal with Brazil. The news follows fellow rumoured target Thomas Tuchel's decision to sign a new contract with England.
Ancelotti, 66, has been linked with the upcoming Old Trafford vacancy alongside 52-year-old Tuchel. United are yet to make a decision on who'll be in charge next season, with Michael Carrick currently at the wheel on an interim basis.
Carrick's impressive start (four wins and one draw) has increased his chances of getting the job permanently, although the Red Devils are taking their time behind the scenes. But one man who won't be sitting in the Old Trafford hot seat is Ancelotti.
The Athletic report that the former Real Madrid boss has agreed a new four-year contract with the Brazilian national team. Ancelotti was only appointed in May 2025 and hasn't taken charge of a major tournament.
The Italian did lead Brazil to World Cup qualification and they've been drawn in a group alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. Ancelotti seems to be enjoying his first job in international football - much like Tuchel.
On Thursday, the FA announced that the ex-Chelsea manager had signed a two-year extension. Tuchel met with United chiefs in 2024 to discuss replacing Erik ten Hag, who ultimately wasn't sacked.
Asked if he'd spoken to clubs this time around before choosing to stay with England beyond the World Cup, Tuchel replied: "Confidential. But I was very committed to the idea after November to stay and the FA was as well.
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 05: Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil, poses on the red carpet prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Emilee Chinn - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Carlo Ancelotti has been linked with the Manchester United job (Image: Emilee Chinn - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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"I'm not sure if they were worried. There was no reason to be worried because I was obviously totally focused through the qualification period and right after that we started the talks.
"I was always committed to this idea of extending the contract, the FA were always committed - there were no games, no second thoughts. The process was very straightforward. There is a possibility that I will be tempted to go back to club football but not in the next two-and-a-half years."
United are continuing to asses their options, with Roberto De Zerbi now freely available after leaving Marseille. Oliver Glasner has also confirmed that he'll leave Crystal Palace at the end of this season. But Carrick may well force the club's hand if he keeps up this rich vein of form.