Howe leading contender to replace Carrick at Man Utd?
September 17, 2026 21:03
Reports on September 17 indicate that Eddie Howe, who most recently managed Newcastle United, is among the frontrunners to replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United head coach. The speculation follows a difficult start for United in the Premier League, with just four points from their opening four matches.
United’s struggles were compounded by their exit from the Carabao Cup in the third round, when Brighton overturned a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2. According to the reports, Carrick’s job is under intense scrutiny and his future could depend on the club’s result at Fulham this weekend.
KEY CONTEXT
Manchester United have taken only four points from four top‑flight games, creating pressure on the coaching staff. The cup elimination at the hands of Brighton added to the scrutiny on Carrick. Fulham, United’s next opponents, drew 0-0 at Liverpool in their most recent outing, suggesting a potentially challenging trip to Craven Cottage for the Red Devils.
Eddie Howe is currently without a club after departing Newcastle United. The source states Howe left Newcastle following the summer window in which several important players left the club; he remains available and is evaluating his next move.
WHY IT MATTERS
A managerial change at Manchester United would be a major development for one of England’s biggest clubs. The combination of poor league results and an early cup exit has created a situation in which the manager’s position is being publicly questioned. Bringing in a high‑profile, recently available manager like Howe would signal a decisive response from the club’s hierarchy, while allowing Carrick to remain would reflect confidence in keeping continuity despite recent setbacks. The outcome of the Fulham match is presented in the reports as a potential trigger for whichever path the club chooses.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Manchester United’s league trip to Fulham at Craven Cottage is highlighted as a decisive fixture in the reports; the claimed possibility of Carrick being sacked is linked to the result of that game.
- Any official statement from Manchester United regarding Carrick’s status or potential approaches to Eddie Howe will be the clearest confirmation or refutation of the media speculation.
- Developments from Howe himself about his availability or interest, and any moves by United’s board, would clarify whether the reported candidacy is progressing beyond the rumour stage.
KEY FACTS
- Manchester United have four points from their first four Premier League matches (source report).
- United were eliminated from the Carabao Cup in the third round after Brighton came back from 0-2 to win 3-2.
- Reports name Eddie Howe as a leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick should United dismiss him.
- Fulham drew 0-0 at Liverpool ahead of hosting United at Craven Cottage.
- Eddie Howe is a free agent after leaving Newcastle, having departed following the summer sale of key players; he is reportedly weighing his options.