Manchester United have added Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac to their shortlist ahead of the summer, according to a report from Football Insider.
The Red Devils are in the hunt for a new manager heading into the 2026/2027 season, whether that be Michael Carrick or a potential new candidate.
Carrick has done a phenomenal job since returning to Old Trafford and remains unbeaten since taking over in January, but it's not a guarantee that he remains in the dugout.
Carrick only signed a deal until the summer, allowing INEOS and the decision-makers to take their time over the next appointment.
A host of managers are already being linked with the role, including Carrick, but it's unclear what direction United will go in when the 2025/2026 season comes to an end.
Man Utd Add Bundesliga Manager to Shortlist
Niko Kovac
According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester United have now added Borussia Dortmund manager Kovac to their shortlist for the summer.
It's understood that the 54-year-old isn't one of the preferred candidates for the role, but he has made the shortlist as United weigh up their options to potentially replace Carrick.
It's also claimed that Carrick is currently the 'overwhelming favourite' to land the role on a permanent basis after an impressive start to his tenure.
Kovac, described as 'one of the best coaches' in the world, currently has Dortmund sitting in second place in the Bundesliga table, 11 points behind league leaders Bayern Munich.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks on vs West Ham Related
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He could stay beyond the summer.
Man Utd Should Stick With Carrick
Michael Carrick
There's been plenty of change at United over the last few years, whether that be managers, players, or other backroom staff, and that can't be helpful for them as they look to head back in the right direction.
Carrick has arrived as a familiar face to supporters and some of the staff at the club, and the job he's done so far is nothing short of phenomenal.
It makes little sense for United to make another change if their form continues, The players seem to enjoy playing under him, and he's getting the best out of some of the stars who were previously struggling under Ruben Amorim.
Niko Kovac's Record as Manager
Niko Kovac watching on from the touchline
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to provide the figures regarding Kovac's record as a manager throughout his career.
Borussia Dortmund – ~57–58% (ongoing tenure)
FC Bayern Munich – ~69.2%
AS Monaco – ~58.1%
Eintracht Frankfurt – ~45.0%
VfL Wolfsburg – ~38.5%
Croatia senior national team – ~52.6%
Croatia U21 – highest junior win rate (~80%; small sample)
Career note: Kovač’s overall career win percentage is around ~50–51% across all clubs and competitions.