Antonio Conte could replace Michael Carrick at Man United
Manchester United could look to appoint Antonio Conte if they decide to part ways with Michael Carrick, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
O’Rourke shared the update on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, as reported by Caught Offside, after a very difficult opening to the campaign for the Red Devils.
United have picked up a mere five points from their first five Premier League fixtures and have already suffered an early elimination from the Carabao Cup.
Pressure builds on Carrick
While the club’s INEOS hierarchy currently maintain their backing for Carrick, speculation surrounding his long-term future has intensified after their poor start.
Speaking on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, O’Rourke said:
“If Manchester United do make a decision to look for a new manager and get rid of Michael Carrick, Antonio Conte will be one of the names in the frame.”
The reporter pointed out that the Italian’s current unemployment status makes him an incredibly straightforward option to appoint if the board decides to act.
Discussing the ease of a potential deal, O’Rourke added:
“He’s out of work, so it would be a lot easier to try and bring him in.”
O’Rourke explained that observers have naturally linked the former Chelsea boss with the Old Trafford hotseat given the current situation. However, he clarified that the club are still hoping Carrick can turn things around.
The journalist noted that the former Chelsea boss is highly likely to be on the radar of several clubs who are considering making a change in the dugout.
Conte wants a sleeping giant
Conte is currently available after leaving Napoli, having previously won league titles with Juventus, Inter Milan, and the Neapolitan side.
The 57-year-old manager recently dropped a massive hint about his preferred next destination, expressing a desire to rebuild a fallen powerhouse.
Speaking about his future ambitions, Conte said:
“I’d like to go to one of these clubs to dust off that history and make it shine once more.”
Although he did not name the Red Devils directly, his words will certainly resonate with the current predicament at Old Trafford.
United remain one of the biggest clubs in world football but have struggled to mount consistent title challenges in the Premier League since Sir Alex Ferguson retired.
A proven Premier League winner
The Italian tactician knows exactly what it takes to succeed in English football, having lifted the Premier League trophy in his first season with Chelsea.
He also secured the FA Cup during his Stamford Bridge tenure before a later, silverware-free spell in London with Tottenham Hotspur, where he still managed to secure Champions League qualification.
His strict methods and talent for establishing a distinct tactical system might attract the United board if they ultimately opt for a new direction.
Carrick did lead United back into Europe’s elite competition last term, but this season’s regression has left him under intense scrutiny.
For now, the former United midfielder has the backing of the board and will be given the opportunity to improve results.
However, the next few performances are highly likely to shape the conversation around the managerial hotseat, with Conte waiting in the wings.
