Manchester United have yet to make a decision on who their next permanent manager will be, but there is a leading candidate, according to journalist Paddy Keogh.
The Red Devils parted ways with Ruben Amorim in January after a turgid 14-month spell in charge, and have since improved to third place in the Premier League, and sit seven points above Chelsea in sixth as they push to qualify for next season's Champions League under interim boss Michael Carrick.
INEOS are understood to be biding their time when it comes to making a final decision about their next manager, as they want to ensure they appoint the right person, although they also want their new man in place before the start of the World Cup in June.
No Manager Decision Made Yet at Man Utd
Manchester United caretaker boss Michael Carrick claps the fans
Since taking over at Old Trafford, Carrick has led the club to seven wins in his ten games in charge, losing just once against Newcastle at St James' Park.
Those performances have seen several pundits, ex-players, and fans call for the legendary former midfielder to step up and take the role permanently into next season. And according to Keogh, while no decision has been made, Carrick is in 'pole position' for the role currently.
"Manager role not decided, [the] club [have] not made up their mind," he wrote.
"Carrick has done better than expected and could stay on. Big decision to be made, and he's in pole position currently. Right now, it looks like it's his."
Man Utd Must Be Ruthless With Manager Decision
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick applauds the supporters
While Carrick, who has been dubbed 'unbelievable', has been exceptional in his role since taking over earlier this year, Man Utd shouldn't be rushing to give him the job permanently when you consider some of the options available.
Bundesliga winner Julian Nagelsmann is someone who is open to the job and could be available this summer, while Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner are both options with their contracts expiring at the end of the season.
Roberto De Zerbi has also been linked with the role, although there are question marks over his attitude and behaviour off the pitch, alongside his performances on it. But Carrick doesn't have the top-level experience they have, which must also be considered.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to rank the aforementioned options on their compatability with the job, and this was its response:
1. Julian Nagelsmann – Elite tactical flexibility, modern pressing/possession hybrid; suits squad evolution and long-term rebuild.
2. Roberto De Zerbi – Clear identity, builds structure; risk with defensive transitions but high ceiling.
3. Andoni Iraola – Intense pressing, vertical play; strong fit culturally, but needs squad adaptation.
4. Oliver Glasner – Pragmatic, counter-based success; less aligned with dominant United expectations.
5. Michael Carrick – Promising, understands club DNA; lacks elite-level experience for immediate turnaround.
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