Conversations with the “genius” are about to start. In my book, he is the world’s most boring manager, but apparently they don’t agree with that.
Manchester United are ready to start talks to replace Michael Carrick – after the club’s 2-1 defeat to Leeds United at Old Trafford.
Carrick missed the opportunity to move ten points ahead of Champions League rivals Chelsea, who are currently in sixth place. The loss came against a Leeds team that is fighting for survival in the Premier League.
Read: Andoni Iraola does not confirm Bournemouth exit already without a very good reason
Two goals from Noah Okafor in the first half gave United a mountain to climb. A controversial red card for Lisandro Martínez made the points unavailable – despite a hope late in the game via Casemiro.
– United in strong position – yet it could hurt Carrick
United are still very much in a position to return to Europe’s premier tournament after a two-season absence. Nevertheless, the result could prove detrimental to Carrick’s long-term future at Old Trafford.
According to GiveMeSport, United’s decision-makers are ready to take “a formal approach” to Germany national team boss Julian Nagelsmann, who will lead his team in the World Cup this summer.
It is understood that both Nagelsmann and Carrick are the leading candidates for the permanent job, while US manager Mauricio Pochettino has fallen down the shortlist.
The report claims that the German is open to taking the job after his national team assignments in the United States, Canada and Mexico have ended. A Premier League club is a dream for him.
It is also suggested that Portugal’s manager and former Everton boss Roberto Martínez has been contacted. But as things stand, Nagelsmann is still the main target to replace Carrick.
Read: Chelsea and Arsenal keep an eye on their legend Cesc Fabregas
“Carrick is not the first choice,” says Neville
After Monday’s game against Leeds, Gary Neville agreed that his former club should continue to look for other options – despite Carrick’s impressive start.
“If Manchester United can bring in someone who has won the Champions League regularly, or who has won titles in their own country regularly, they should still go for that solution, as far as I can see,” he said on Monday Night Football.
However, Neville admitted that the more replacement options drop out, and the more Carrick leads the club to third place, the more benefits there will be in keeping him.
“Because what you can’t do is take the chance to replace him with a manager you’re not entirely sure about,” he added.
