Antonio Conte in contact with Man Utd amid Michael Carrick sack rumours

15 Oct 2026 12:32 BST 2 min read

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

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Antonio Conte’s representatives have reportedly initiated contact with the Manchester United hierarchy to confirm his interest in replacing Michael Carrick as the Red Devils manager.

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Carrick, 45, is under severe pressure following a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday night, with the Old Trafford outfit now without a win in their last five matches across all competitions.

It’s understood that Carrick currently retains the faith of the Man Utd board, but that stance could feasibly change if he is unable to end the club’s winless drought against rivals Leeds United on Sunday afternoon.

Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has been heavily linked with the job in recent weeks, while it’s reported that Conte is interested in returning to the Premier League after leaving his role as Napoli boss over the summer.

This has been confirmed by TEAMtalk, who claim that Conte’s representatives have renewed contact with the Man Utd hierarchy to confirm that he is ready to take over at Old Trafford with immediate effect.

The ex-Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur head coach is reportedly attracted to the possibility of returning to England, and a deal could accelerate if Carrick is dismissed.

While Conte has reportedly informed Man Utd of his desire to replace Carrick in the Old Trafford dugout, The Sun state that Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler is currently the leading Premier League candidate for the role.

Hurzeler has beaten Man Utd on four occasions in six matches since his arrival at Brighton in 2024, and he has guided the Seagulls to third-place in the Premier League table after a sensational start to the new season.

© IMAGO - Michael Carrick is under pressure at Man Utd

Will Man Utd sack Michael Carrick?

Although Conte is eager to be appointed as the new Man Utd head coach, transfer news expert David Ornstein insists that a managerial change is not currently on the cards.

“I don't know of any desire to get rid of Carrick,” he admitted to The Athletic. “On the contrary, they are right behind him and want him to succeed.

“But you're right behind somebody at any club until you're not. And there will be concern about the results and certainly the performances.

“A massive game at the weekend where Carrick will hope to deliver. And I do think the goodwill gives him time and faith. But at a club of this stature, if you don't deliver, you'll pay the price.”

Antonio Conte in contact with Man Utd amid Michael Carrick sack rumours

Will Man Utd sack Michael Carrick?

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