Manchester United’s reported 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como has intensified scrutiny of Carrick’s position, with the team said to be enduring a run of seven consecutive matches without a victory. The disappointing results have reportedly prompted renewed discussions about potential managerial replacements should the club decide to make a change.
Among the names attracting attention is Howe, whose experience in the Premier League and record of rebuilding Newcastle United have made him a potential option for the Old Trafford job.
Howe ‘Would Take’ the Manchester United Job
According to journalist Alan Nixon on Patreon, as reported by TEAMtalk, Howe is currently considered the “favourite” for the Manchester United position and “would take it” if the opportunity were presented to him.
The 48-year-old has been without a managerial role since leaving Newcastle at the end of July, bringing an end to an almost five-year spell at St James’ Park.
Although his final season ended with Newcastle finishing 12th in the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, Howe’s overall tenure included several notable achievements. He guided the club into the Champions League on two occasions and delivered the League Cup in 2025, securing Newcastle’s first major domestic trophy in 70 years.
Those accomplishments could strengthen his credentials should Manchester United decide to pursue a managerial change. His experience of working under the demands of English football’s top flight may also appeal to a club seeking greater consistency after a difficult period.
Howe is not the only manager reportedly being considered. Fabian Hürzeler and Antonio Conte have also been mentioned among the possible candidates, suggesting United could have several options to evaluate if the position becomes available.
Could Howe Bring Stability to Old Trafford?
Howe’s potential appointment would represent a different approach from the high-profile managerial appointments and tactical projects Manchester United have pursued in recent years.
His managerial record at Newcastle was built around improving the existing squad, establishing a recognisable playing style and gradually raising the team’s competitive standards. After taking charge of a struggling side, he helped transform Newcastle into Champions League contenders and guided them to a major domestic trophy.
His teams have generally been associated with energetic pressing, organised attacking play and an emphasis on collective effort. Such qualities could be relevant to a United side seeking to restore consistency and establish a more settled identity on the pitch.
However, the prospect of Howe taking charge at Old Trafford would also come with considerable challenges.
Manchester United operate under a different level of global scrutiny, with expectations surrounding results, silverware and playing style placing significant pressure on any manager. Howe’s experience at Newcastle would provide a foundation, but success at one club does not guarantee the same outcome at another.
Questions could also arise from Newcastle’s 12th-place finish in his final season, which demonstrated that his tenure was not without setbacks. United would need to assess both his achievements and the circumstances surrounding that disappointing campaign before making any decision.
Carrick’s Future Could Shape United’s Next Move
For now, Howe’s reported willingness to accept the position remains part of the wider speculation surrounding Manchester United’s managerial future. The reported interest does not, by itself, confirm that the club has made a decision about Carrick or formally approached the former Newcastle manager.
Nevertheless, if United’s results fail to improve and the club’s hierarchy decides a change is necessary, Howe could become a prominent name in the discussion.
His experience of rebuilding Newcastle, securing Champions League qualification and winning the League Cup provides a substantial part of his managerial résumé. Whether those achievements would persuade United to turn to him remains uncertain.
Much will depend on Carrick’s ability to improve results and on the club’s long-term vision for the team. Should Manchester United decide to seek a new manager, Howe’s name could feature prominently in the ensuing debate over who should lead the club into its next chapter.