Carrick's Stock Rises as De Zerbi Snubbed; Nagelsmann Emerges as Main Rival

Michael Carrick's grip on Manchester United's managerial hot seat appears to be tightening, with fresh developments suggesting the interim boss has moved closer to securing the job on a permanent basis.

Since taking the reins at the start of 2026, Carrick has exceeded expectations in the wake of Ruben Amorim's departure, compiling an impressive seven wins from ten outings. The United legend has won over the Old Trafford faithful in the process, with supporters increasingly vocal in their backing for him to be handed the position long-term.

The club's original plan was to keep Carrick in temporary charge through the summer, but mounting fan pressure has created a tricky situation for INEOS to navigate. Nevertheless, United have continued to scout alternative options, with Roberto De Zerbi among those previously discussed.

However, according to talkSPORT's Alex Crook, De Zerbi explored the possibility of replacing Carrick only to be rebuffed by United hierarchy before ultimately joining Spurs. "We've got to Easter Weekend and they've not spoken – as I understand – to any other candidates," Crook explained. "That's not to say Carrick has been interviewed for the job. I don't think they'll need to interview him."

Crook highlighted what he considers the most telling aspect of the situation: "Speaking to people in Italy this morning… They were telling me that Roberto De Zerbi – before taking the Tottenham job — sounded out Manchester United and was told he wasn't in the reckoning there. Is that because they have already made their mind up without making it public?"

Despite Carrick's apparent momentum, Julian Nagelsmann has emerged as his primary challenger for the role. The Germany boss, contracted until 2028, is understood to be open to a Premier League opportunity this summer and has long harboured ambitions of managing in the English top flight.

Ben Jacobs revealed that formal approaches to other candidates are likely to materialise in April, though Carrick remains well-positioned given his on-pitch achievements relative to his competitors. Mauricio Pochettino, currently with US Soccer, faces contractual complications that would require United to negotiate his exit, placing him further down the pecking order.

United are expected to have their next permanent manager in place before the World Cup, according to Jacobs' reporting.