Fan favourite from rival club involved in talks to become next Man United manager | OneFootball

Manchester United find themselves navigating an increasingly complex managerial crossroads as the 2025/26 season approaches its end. Despite Michael Carrick engineering a remarkable turnaround since stepping into the interim role, the Old Trafford hierarchy remains hesitant to hand him the permanent reins.

This prolonged uncertainty has now opened the door to one of Europe’s most coveted tacticians, with widespread reports indicating that Xabi Alonso has held exploratory talks with the club.

According to Football Transfers, the Spanish manager has held talks with Man United, along with other top clubs who are looking for a new manager.

As United push for a Champions League return, the board faces a defining choice between the comforting stability of a club legend and the elite pedigree of a continental heavyweight.

Michael Carrick has saved Man United from embarrassment

Following Ruben Amorim’s unexpected departure in December, Carrick was tasked with steadying a deeply fractured dressing room.

Across his 10 games in charge, the former United midfielder has overseen an impressive return of seven wins, two draws, and a solitary defeat.

Currently sitting third in the Premier League, just a point above Aston Villa, United have the momentum, yet the INEOS-led board is resolutely refusing to make a knee-jerk appointment before thoroughly surveying the managerial landscape.

Xabi Alonso to make controversial Old Trafford move?

The former Liverpool midfielder is constantly linked with the Anfield job due to the uncertain future of Arne Slot.

However, latest reports are suggesting that a move to Old Trafford cannot be ruled out.

Alonso is eager to return to the dugout and has already held preliminary discussions with Manchester United, alongside other European heavyweights including Manchester City, Benfica, and Porto.

Similarly, PSG have reportedly earmarked him as their primary target should Luis Enrique depart for Real Madrid.

Consequently, if United truly want Alonso, they are effectively entering a high-stakes, multi-club bidding war.

Whether United opt to reward Carrick’s undeniable domestic revival or pivot toward Alonso’s proven tactical ceiling, the final decision will undoubtedly shape the entire trajectory of the INEOS era.