Carrick faces Liverpool baptism of fire with Iraola circling

Michael Carrick finds himself under the microscope heading into this weekend's trip to Anfield, with Manchester United having identified Andoni Iraola as the leading contender to replace him should the interim manager falter.

Since taking temporary charge following Ruben Amorim's sacking in January, Carrick has steered United into Champions League qualification territory with an impressive 9-2-2 record from 13 matches. Yet despite such a strong showing, the club's hierarchy appears reluctant to hand him the job on a permanent basis without further consideration.

Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team have indicated a preference for a more commanding managerial presence. Gary Neville, among others, has suggested Carrick might opt to walk away, with Julian Nagelsmann mooted as a potential successor.

However, it's Iraola who has emerged as the principal backup option. The 43-year-old Bournemouth boss, who becomes a free agent this summer, is admired for his coaching methods and attacking philosophy – qualities that align with United's stated direction. Yet Iraola is hardly short of suitors. Crystal Palace are pursuing him as Oliver Glasner's replacement, whilst Chelsea view him as their leading candidate following Liam Rosenior's dismissal last month.

The club hierarchy's willingness to publicly explore alternatives puts Carrick in a precarious position. Whilst it would still be considered a shock if he doesn't ultimately receive the permanent role, the 2019 template – when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's temporary appointment eventually became permanent – has prompted caution from United's decision-makers.

Gary Neville has suggested the Liverpool fixture represents a watershed moment. Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, he argued the Sunday showdown carries greater significance for both managers than for supporters themselves. "It just feels a bit like, on Sunday, it is bigger for Slot and Michael Carrick than it is for the fans," Neville said. "I don't think Michael could afford a bad defeat on Sunday. Is it about the managers on Sunday a little bit?"

A Liverpool victory would level them on points with United, adding genuine stakes to what has long been English football's fiercest rivalry. For Carrick, anything less than a respectable showing could hand ammunition to those advocating for Iraola's appointment.