Journalist: Man United considering move for Premier League manager | OneFootball

Manchester United Managerial Search: Martinez Added to Shortlist

Manchester United’s recalibration continues, and according to The United Stand, Roberto Martinez has been added to the club’s managerial shortlist ahead of next season.

The timing is notable. Martinez is expected to step aside as Portugal manager after the 2026 World Cup, potentially making him available for a return to club football for the first time in a decade. United, still navigating the aftershocks of Ruben Amorim’s dismissal in January, are surveying a broad field.

photo IMAGO

Carrick Momentum Builds

Since Michael Carrick assumed interim control, United have won five of their first six matches. Performances have been sharper, belief restored. Carrick is regarded internally as the frontrunner, yet the hierarchy are resisting sentimentality.

Photo IMAGO

Ben Jacobs told The United Stand: “[United] like him but we shouldn’t get too excited about it. I don’t think the data or feedback will push Martinez up there but he’s definitely been discussed as they create this shortlist.”

That framing feels deliberate. Martinez is under consideration, but not yet conviction.

Strategic Fit and Project Focus

Martinez himself has spoken candidly about his future. On The Overlap, he admitted uncertainty. “I can never plan my career. I could never imagine what I have experienced. So, I have always been that when it’s the right time, it’s the right project,” he said.

He expanded further. “Well, I think it’s the project. It’s not about a club, or I would like to manage here.

“No, it’s about that board and that they believe in your work, and what is the project behind it.”

Those words resonate at Old Trafford, where structure and alignment have often proved elusive. United’s leadership are seeking coherence rather than charisma.

Wider Market Constraints

Alternative candidates such as Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti have renewed contracts, narrowing the realistic field. Oliver Glasner, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi remain under review, yet none offer guarantees.

For United, this is about trajectory. Carrick’s revival has bought breathing space. Martinez’s international pedigree offers experience. The decision will ultimately hinge on identity, whether United want evolution from within or a more radical external reset.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United supporters, the inclusion of Martinez will prompt mixed reactions. His international record with Portugal carries weight, yet fans remember previous Premier League spells with nuance.

Carrick’s recent run has shifted the mood. Five wins from six has rekindled belief and reminded supporters what stability can look like. Many will argue that momentum should not be interrupted lightly.

Martinez’s comments about “the right project” and board alignment will strike a chord. United fans have grown weary of fragmented vision. If the hierarchy genuinely value structure and long term clarity, that message matters.

Yet there remains caution. Supporters crave identity, intensity and silverware. The shortlist signals due diligence, but fans will judge the final choice on ambition and coherence. Whether that is Carrick’s continuity or Martinez’s experience, clarity must follow discussion.