Manchester United Agrees with Premier League Title Winner to Replace Michael Carrick

Antonio Conte is reportedly open to the possibility of becoming Manchester United manager if the club decides to part ways with Michael Carrick.

According to a report by the Manchester Evening News on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, Conte would have an interest in the position if United made an approach. Reports from Italy have also suggested that the former Chelsea and Tottenham manager is considering his next move.

United have endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, recording just one win, one draw and two defeats from their opening four matches.

Their latest setback came in Sunday’s Manchester derby, where they lost 1-0 to Manchester City. Despite City being reduced to 10 men, United struggled to make a significant impact and were unable to find an equaliser.

Although Carrick’s side secured a Champions League victory over FC Sabah, pressure on the manager has continued to grow, particularly after a summer transfer window that left questions about the squad’s balance.

United strengthened their midfield with the arrivals of Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. However, they did not make similar additions in several other areas of the team, leaving concerns over the quality and depth available to Carrick.

The former United midfielder guided the club to a third-place finish last season, but the demands of competing in the Champions League alongside domestic football are expected to be considerably greater.

Conte Reportedly Open to Old Trafford Move

Conte has reportedly emerged as one of the leading candidates should United decide to make a managerial change.

Corriere della Sera has named the Italian among the potential options, while Corriere dello Sport reports that Conte would consider a move to Old Trafford if United presented him with a serious proposal.

Conte, who led Chelsea to the Premier League title in the 2016/17 season, is said to be waiting for the right project before returning to management.

The Italian has reportedly rejected approaches from Fenerbahce and the Italy national team while considering his next opportunity.

For United, Conte’s history of winning major trophies could make him an attractive option if the club decides that a change is necessary.

Nicky Butt Questions United’s Recruitment

Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has also questioned the club’s transfer strategy and the level of support Carrick has received from the board.

Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football, Butt questioned why United prioritised midfield reinforcements instead of addressing concerns in attack and defence.

He argued that the squad still lacks a recognised No. 9 and suggested that Carrick could struggle to improve results without the necessary players.

Butt also raised concerns about United’s defensive options, pointing to Harry Maguire’s lack of experience, Luke Shaw’s injury record and the perceived lack of quality at right-back.

He suggested that the club’s recruitment structure may be planning to address those areas in January or during next summer’s transfer window.

However, Butt believes that waiting could leave Carrick without the immediate reinforcements needed to improve the team.

With United already under pressure early in the season, the coming weeks could prove important for Carrick. And if results do not improve, Conte’s reported interest could make him one of the names to watch closely.