Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Antonio Conte as doubts grow over Michael Carrick’s future, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato. The 57-year-old is now said to be the leading candidate should the club decide to make a change.
Why Michael Carrick is under pressure at Old Trafford
Carrick has endured a difficult start to the new Premier League campaign, collecting just one victory from five matches. Defeats to newly promoted Hull City and a ten-man Manchester City at Old Trafford have fuelled the scrutiny, and the upcoming international break is expected to bring even more debate about his position. Although the club are understood not to be planning a dismissal, some reports suggest otherwise.
Other names linked with the Manchester United job
Conte is not the only manager mentioned. Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe and Aston Villa’s Unai Emery have also been touted as possible options. However, Conte, who is currently without a club after leaving Napoli in the summer, appears to be the name gaining most traction.
Would Antonio Conte return to the Premier League?
Earlier rumours linked Conte with the role, and United reportedly denied any approach at that stage. The latest Italian report contradicts that, claiming contact has been made with his camp. Conte won the Premier League title with Chelsea in 2016/17 but endured a troubled spell at Tottenham, yet the chance to rebuild a giant like United could prove tempting for a third English job.
Opinion: Conte brings experience, but also risk
Nothing has been confirmed, and this remains a rumour until United say otherwise. Personally, Conte would suit a side needing structure and a firm hand, but his demanding style and history of short stays make him a gamble. Handing Carrick more time might still appeal to those who value stability, and the next few results could shape the club’s thinking.
