Overview
- United have one win from seven Premier League matches and no victory in six competitions, a run that sources say has produced the club’s worst league start since 1986/87 and sharpened focus on the manager.
- Michael Carrick was made permanent this summer after guiding United to Champions League qualification but his position is being closely monitored as results and performances deteriorate.
- INEOS and the board have publicly backed Carrick while compiling a costed shortlist and contingency plans that senior figures would activate if the team does not recover.
- Reports on October 20 say Antonio Conte’s representatives have renewed contact with United and expressed immediate availability while Italian outlets say Juventus currently plan to keep Luciano Spalletti, and separate reporting names Eddie Howe as a ready, practical alternative.
- Any midseason change faces big constraints because of recent costly sackings, potential compensation for outside clubs or managers, and upcoming fixtures — including a Champions League trip to Como — that are likely to decide whether the club moves quickly or holds to its current course.