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Ineos’ big Michael Carrick decision is being made for them as Luis Enrique the latest of three targets to drop out

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The biggest decision Manchester United chiefs must make is who to appoint as permanent head coach with Michael Carrick still in the running.

Following a five-match unbeaten streak to start his interim status, Manchester United fans want Michael Carrick to stay permanently.

Gary Neville has revealed that United have begun the appointment process for a head coach, and Michael Carrick is being considered despite being initially told his spell would be temporary.

But there are as many as 12 managers linked to United, including current PSG boss Luis Enrique.

Enrique’s style of play is perfect for United, but talk of a new contract in Paris means he is likely going to be unavailable. He is not the only target who has to be ruled out.

Michael Carrick on the touchline at the London Stadium
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

Michael Carrick must be top Man Utd candidate after three dropouts

Carrick is quickly becoming the favourite for the United job after his start as an interim, and top candidates dropping out has helped his chances.

Enrique is set to sign a new deal at PSG, and United’s interest in Thomas Tuchel will quieten down after he signed a two-year extension with England.

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Luis Enrique has been a success everywhere he has been…

Luis Enrique's managerial record.
Credit: Getty Images.

Carlo Ancelotti was Gary Neville’s top target, but Ancelotti’s Brazil deal is set to run until 2030 so he also looks to have dropped off United’s radar.

That is three of United’s top candidates who are now dropping out of the race, which means the permanent job could naturally fall to Carrick.

Managers left to compete with Michael Carrick for Man Utd job

With Ancelotti, Enrique and Tuchel all looking like they are unavailable this summer, United’s options for a permanent head coach have been drastically reduced.

Roberto De Zerbi’s exit at Marseille means he is available, while Oliver Glasner is set to leave Crystal Palace at the end of the season.

Who do you think will be Man Utd manager at the start of the 2026/27 season?

🔮 Let us know who you believe will and should be in charge? Who will Ineos appoint?

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Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

Julian Nagelsmann could still be an option after he is done leading Germany in the 2026 World Cup, while recently sacked Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is still yet to find a new job after leaving Stamford Bridge.

But Carrick should be United’s top candidate, and he has not put a foot wrong since returning to Old Trafford.