Carrick ‘dealt major blow’ as Man Utd intensify manager search: Five main candidates emerge | OneFootball

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has been considered the ultimate favourite for the permanent role over the past few weeks. However, his chances took a massive hit following Monday’s result.

The Red Devils ended their 24-day hiatus with a shocking 1-2 defeat to Leeds United, who earned their first victory at Old Trafford since 1981.

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Carrick was irritated by Lisandro Martinez’s controversial dismissal, but his team was already trailing by two goals at that stage. Casemiro managed to pull one back, but the hosts couldn’t find the equaliser.

Leeds defeat reduces Michael Carrick chances of landing permanent Man Utd job

Despite the latest defeat, Carrick still boasts a largely positive record since taking over in mid-January. He won seven of his 11 matches in charge, while drawing two and losing as many. Moreover, Man Utd remain on the right track to secure Champions League football next season.

But according to Sport Bible journalist David McDonnell, Monday’s defeat could have serious ramifications for the 44-year-old.

As the source explains, the United hierarchy weren’t impressed with the team’s ‘lack of intensity’, especially after an extended period of rest.

Therefore, the report believes Carrick’s chances of securing a permanent role have been ‘dealt a major blow’. While it is too early to write off the former midfield anchor, the hierarchy is said to be been to avoid another ’emotional’ decision, similar to Ole Gunnar Solkjaer’s confirmation.

The Norwegian was handed the reins permanently following a solid start to his stewardship, and partially due to his historic status at the club.

Moreover, the board is determined to get this decision right, especially following the Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim debacles over the past two campaigns.

Enrique, Nagelsmann & three other managers linked with Man Utd role

The source also names five candidates that Man Utd will consider if they opt against keeping Carrick. Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique remains at the top of the shortlist, even though he’s negotiating a new contract with the reigning European champions.

Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann is also appreciated by the United directors, but it remains to be seen if he’s going to continue with the national team beyond the World Cup.

Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery is another interesting profile. The Spaniards’ Villans are currently on par in points with the Red Devils in the Premier League standings.

Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola have already announced their departures from Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, respectively, so they will be available in the summer. However, the Spaniard is the favourite to take over at Athletic Bilbao.

Finally, the report mentions previous interest in Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel, but the duo ruled themselves out of the race after deciding to extend their stints with Brazil and England, respectively.

While the situation remains largely obscure at this stage, Carrick will be keen to finish the campaign on a high note to maximise his chances and ward off exterior competition.