Man United identify manager who has done ‘incredible job’ as possible Carrick replacement

Manchester United are reportedly keeping Eddie Howe in mind as a potential future manager if the club eventually decides to move on from Michael Carrick.

There is no immediate plan to sack Carrick, and the former United midfielder continues to have backing from the hierarchy.

Still, results will ultimately decide how long that patience lasts, and United appear to be doing their homework on possible alternatives.

Howe, currently available after leaving Newcastle United in the summer, is one of the names attracting attention at Old Trafford.

Howe ticks two important boxes for Man United

According to Football Insider, Man United would consider approaching Howe if Carrick were dismissed.

Sources claim the 48-year-old ticks “two big boxes” for the club because of his extensive Premier League experience and his record of managing in the Champions League.

Howe has been taking a break from football since ending his five-year spell at Newcastle in July.

During his time at St James’ Park, he transformed the club from relegation candidates into Champions League qualifiers and also delivered a long-awaited domestic trophy.

United are not currently negotiating with Howe, and Carrick remains in charge, so this should be viewed as contingency planning rather than evidence that a managerial change is imminent.

Guardiola praise shows why Howe is rated highly

Howe’s reputation among other elite coaches also explains why his name continues to appear in conversations around major jobs.

Pep Guardiola has been particularly complimentary. Speaking about Howe’s work at Newcastle, the former Manchester City manager told TNT Sports: “Eddie Howe has done an incredible job and it’s a pleasure to watch them.”

That praise carries weight. Howe knows English football, has experience rebuilding teams and has shown he can handle the pressure that comes with managing an ambitious club.

Those qualities would certainly appeal to United. There would still be questions.

Managing Man United brings a level of scrutiny even Newcastle cannot fully replicate, and Howe would inherit a squad that still needs work.

For now, Carrick’s position is safe. But if United’s season starts to unravel, having an experienced Premier League manager like Howe available could make the board’s next decision much more interesting.