Manchester United consider Luis Enrique as doubts grow over Carrick
Manchester United's hierarchy is considering a move for Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique as part of a wider review of managerial candidates, according to reports. The club's decision-makers are assessing several high-profile coaches, with interim boss Michael Carrick's prospects of securing the role permanently said to have diminished following a recent defeat.
Senior figures at Old Trafford, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Omar Berrada, are reportedly evaluating a shortlist that includes Enrique, Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Aston Villa's Unai Emery, and Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner. Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, who will leave his post this summer, is also under consideration. This comes amid fresh internal doubts about Carrick's long-term suitability, according to a report from SPORTbible's David McDonnell.
The scrutiny follows United's 2-1 home loss to Leeds United, a result which allowed rivals to close the gap in the race for Champions League qualification. Sources suggest INEOS officials hold concerns over the "lack of intensity and purpose" displayed in that match, leading to a major blow for Carrick's candidacy. The club's leadership is said to be wary of making a sentimental permanent appointment, a scenario they believe occurred with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2019.
Carrick, 44, initially earned widespread praise after taking interim charge in January, overseeing an upturn in performances and the development of young players like Kobbie Mainoo. However, the recent setback has prompted a broader search. Luis Enrique would represent the most decorated option, having won a treble with Barcelona and multiple domestic titles with PSG, though he is considered likely to remain in France.
The availability of other candidates is influencing the process. Glasner and Iraola have both confirmed they will leave their respective clubs this summer, making them attainable. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Iraola would be "open" to replacing Carrick if offered the role. United had previously held interest in Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti, but both are now settled in other positions.
Despite the external noise, some sources close to the club insist Carrick remains highly respected internally for his handling of the squad and overall operations. The final decision is expected to be a pivotal first major appointment for the Ratcliffe-Berrada regime, setting the direction for the club's new era. The search indicates a desire for a proven, external manager with a track record of winning major trophies, a profile Carrick has yet to establish.
