Manchester United Eye Antonio Conte as Potential Successor to Michael Carrick Amid Poor Start

Manchester United is reportedly considering former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte to take over from Michael Carrick after a disappointing start to the 2026-27 Premier League season. The club has made initial contact with the Italian coach, who is currently out of work following his departure from Napoli at the end of last season.

Early Season Struggles Prompt Action

The Red Devils began this campaign hoping to build on momentum from Carrick’s permanent appointment and summer signings, but results have been underwhelming. Losses against Hull City, Manchester City, and Brighton have left the team struggling to find consistency and rhythm.

Conte Leads the List of Candidates

According to Calciomercato, Conte is the top choice should United decide to make a managerial change. At 57 years old, he is seen as the frontrunner to step in if Carrick is dismissed in the upcoming months. Club officials have already reached out to gauge his availability.

There had been speculation about Conte returning to manage the Italy national team, but with Roberto Mancini holding that position, a Premier League return now seems more plausible.

Worries Over Domestic Form

United’s recent victories have mostly come against less challenging opponents, including comfortable home wins versus newly-promoted Ipswich Town and Champions League outsiders Sabah. Nevertheless, their overall form remains worrying, especially following a damaging loss to Brighton.

This defeat ended a 50-year record where United never lost a home match after leading 2-0. Such collapses have intensified doubts about Carrick’s future at Old Trafford.

Upcoming Fixtures Could Decide Carrick’s Fate

The international break offers Carrick a critical window to reassess and attempt to revive the squad’s fortunes. Following the break, United faces two significant tests within three days:

• October 10, 2026, 19:30: Home game against bottom-placed Tottenham Hotspur
• Champions League away match versus Atletico Madrid

The Tottenham fixture could be particularly intense as Spurs' manager Roberto De Zerbi also faces pressure. Failure to secure points here might put Carrick’s job at serious risk. The subsequent trip to Spain only adds to the challenge.

If results do not improve drastically in these games, it seems likely that Antonio Conte could soon be stepping into the Manchester United manager role.