Man Utd receive Antonio Conte verdict amid Michael Carrick sack speculation

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Manchester United have been urged to steer clear of appointing Antonio Conte if they decide to sack manager Michael Carrick.

Carrick is under pressure after Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United meant the Red Devils have made their worst start to a season since 1986.

The 20-time league champions have only won two of their 10 games this season, with performances lacking energy and cutting edge.

Carrick was named head coach on a permanent basis in May after guiding United to Champions League qualification as interim boss last season.

However, former Chelsea manager Conte is being mentioned as a possible replacement for Carrick - should United decide a change is necessary.

Yet Mark Ogden, ESPN’s Senior Football Writer, believes Conte represents a bad fit for United given he is a fiery character who is suited to short-term roles.

“The problem with Conte is that there are plenty of negatives,” says Ogden. “Many would argue that they outweigh the positives.

“The former Italy coach is confrontational with his players and also those in the boardroom, while the majority of his previous jobs have ended in acrimony.

“If Carrick goes, United might want somebody to get tough with the underperforming squad.

“Conte would do that, but his ultra-demanding approach could have a negative effect on a group of players that has rarely shown toughness, so a bad situation could become worse.

“Since leaving Juventus for the Italy job in 2014, Conte has had four club jobs and never lasted more than two years in any of them, so if United want a long-term solution then he isn't their man.”

Conte fuelled United speculation with recent interview

Regarded as one of the best coaches in the world, Conte is currently unemployed after leaving Napoli at the end of last season.

In a recent interview with The Athletic, the Italian said he wants to take over a sleeping giant in his next role - with many believing he was referring to United.

United have not won the Premier League title since 2012/13, while they last tasted Champions League success in 2007/08 - both under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Conte, on the other hand, has won the Premier League with Chelsea and Serie A with Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli in recent years.

Meanwhile, Carrick will look to alleviate some of the pressure on his shoulders when United travel to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday.

United will then entertain Bournemouth on Sunday, with both sides having won just one Premier League game this season.