Manchester United have reportedly identified five candidates to manage them next season if Michael Carrick is not given the job on a permanent basis. The former Red Devils midfielder has enjoyed an impressive start to his temporary spell in charge of the Old Trafford heavyweights. He has overseen six wins from his first eight games, with United's strong form putting them firmly in the battle for Champions League qualification.
Their resurgence under Carrick has opened up the possibility of the 44-year-old being awarded the manager's job permanently next season. It was initially reported that he was strictly appointed on a caretaker basis with little chance of him keeping the role beyond the summer. However, his strong start has reportedly led to United bosses changing their stance.
Carrick has earned the admiration of the club's hierarchy for his calm and measured approach, particularly when dealing with the media, proving that he is capable of managing the pressure of the job, according to ESPN.
While club chiefs are impressed, the report adds there is no rush internally to hand Carrick the manager's job on a full-time basis. However, that possibility cannot yet be ruled out.
It's also claimed that United have drawn up a shortlist of five potential replacements, should they decide to go in a different direction ahead of next season.
There is said to be a feeling within the club that Carrick's positive start could still fade away, meaning a thorough recruitment process must be undertaken.
Julian Nagelsmann, Roberto De Zerbi, Andoni Iraola, Unai Emery and Oliver Glasner are believed to be the names on United's shortlist.
De Zerbi is the only unemployed manager out of the five, meaning United won't need to pay any compensation if they decide to appoint him.
Meanwhile, it's been speculated that Nagelsmann could leave Germany after this summer's World Cup, while Glasner will depart Crystal Palace when the season draws to a close.
It remains to be seen how United's managerial search will unfold over the coming weeks, with much likely to depend on how Carrick performs between now and the end of the campaign.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently admitted that he was pleased with Carrick's efforts so far, telling Sky Sports: "He's doing an excellent job. Yeah, absolutely."
However, the INEOS billionaire refused to be drawn into commenting on whether he would land the role permanently, replying: "Not going there."