- Man Utd deciding on next head coach
- Tuchel and Ancelotti have already been ruled out
- Pochettino and Martinez are out of contention, too
Manchester United’s search for a permanent head coach is beginning to pick up the pace as the season nears an end. Several high‑profile names have already been ruled out.
The Reds sealed qualification for the Champions League with three matches to spare, a feat that has strengthened Michael Carrick’s case to stay on beyond the summer. Yet the club appears in no rush to make a decision, despite the growing list of unavailable candidates.
Carrick took charge in January, replacing Ruben Amorim until the end of the season. Across 14 top‑flight matches, the former midfielder has collected 32 points from a possible 42. The turnaround in results and the improved atmosphere around the dressing room have led many to believe he deserves the role permanently.
Pochettino and Martinez out of contention
Ben Jacobs has told The United Stand that Mauricio Pochettino is not in the conversation at the moment for the job. The Argentine has been linked with several Premier League posts, but Old Trafford does not appear to be his destination.
Similarly, there is no suggestion that Roberto Martinez is in this process despite data being run on him. The Portugal manager is currently preparing for this summer’s World Cup. He will not be heading to Manchester either.
Jacobs also provided an update on Kieran McKenna, the Ipswich Town manager who has admirers at United. The Northern Irishman has support, but the club have had no conversations, which leaves Carrick in a favourable position.
“Carrick is in a really strong position,” Jacobs said, “but it won’t be handed to him immediately after securing the Champions League.” The club plans to take its time, even though Champions League football is already guaranteed.
Xavi Proposed but Carrick Preferred
Fabrizio Romano has also weighed in on the managerial discussion. Romano revealed that Xavi Hernandez is open to a Premier League move, but not exclusively:
“Xavi wants to also consider the Premier League as a potential destination, but not the only one. Xavi is very open about his future, but the Premier League would be interesting for Xavi Hernandez.”
Romano added a crucial detail about United’s recent history:
“I can also reveal to you that Xavi Hernandez was also proposed to Manchester United since January, since they decided to part ways with Ruben Amorim. But Manchester United decided Michael Carrick would be the interim coach, and now Michael Carrick with big chances to continue at the club.”
As the campaign season comes to an end, the managerial debate is picking up pace. Both Pochettino and Martinez are out.
McKenna remains admired but untouched, and Xavi, once proposed, was set aside. The door is open for Carrick. Whether he walks through it will be decided in the weeks ahead, but his position has never looked stronger.
