Ten possible candidates for the Manchester United head coach role have all but been ruled out as Michael Carrick's fantastic form at Old Trafford continues to turn heads.
Manchester United’s decision to appoint Michael Carrick as Head Coach until the end of the season has exceeded all expectations.
With the team sitting seventh in the Premier League after inconsistent results under Rúben Amorim and interim boss Darren Fletcher, the former midfielder began his spell at Old Trafford with impressive victories over Manchester City and Arsenal.
In his ten matches in charge so far, Carrick has recorded seven wins, two draws and two defeats, lifting United up to third in the table and putting them in a strong position to secure Champions League qualification.
As the club continues its search for a permanent manager, there is growing belief that Carrick could already be the solution they have been looking for.
Ten managers ruled out of United job
Aside from Carrick's brilliant form, United are said to be determined to conduct thorough due diligence on all possible options for the United job, although, according to The Sun, this process may be quicker than first thought.
The report claims that Carrick has now become the favourite to stay on and take the reins next season, with many of the likely candidates having been pretty much ruled out.
Oliver Glasner has admirers at Old Trafford, but Crystal Palace's poor form of late has ended his chances of being appointed. Sir Gareth Southgate, Roberto de Zerbi, and Thomas Frank are no longer being considered, despite interest in 2024.
Xabi Alonso has also been mentioned as a name, but his focus is on a possible appointment at Liverpool amid Arne Slot's problems, while Luis Enrique is widely said to be happy at Paris Saint-Germain.
Thomas Tuchel, a favourite of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is not an option after signing a two-year extension with England, while Carlo Ancelotti has no desire to leave the Brazilian national side.
Mauricio Pochettino is said to be much more likely to end up back with Tottenham after his stint with the United States is up, while Julian Nagelsmann’s contract with Germany remains intact until 2028.
United feel vindicated regarding Carrick choice
While Carrick's appointment has been a brilliant success, he was not initially the first choice. After Amorim's sacking, it was Ole Gunnar Solskjær, manager between 2018 and 2021, who was the early favourite.
However, Carrick impressed in interviews with his plan, knowledge, and understanding of his role, and the above report states that those at Old Trafford feel "vindicated" about their choice.
The club have still not spoken to any other candidates regarding the role, although this does not come as a major shock, since reports of speaking to other possible managers could be destabilising for the squad.
With major targets dropping out or becoming unavailable, United could well turn to Carrick and hand him a longer contract, such as a two-year deal, to see what he could do when given time, funds, and longer-term trust.