Fabrizio Romano has thrown down a gauntlet: when Manchester United hunt for a permanent manager this summer, two high-profile candidates are guaranteed to be on the table — and one of them already boasts Champions League glory.
Carrick in the Hot Seat as United Plot Their Next Move
Michael Carrick has stepped into the Old Trafford spotlight as interim head coach, the 44-year-old chosen to steady the ship after Ruben Amorim’s exit and edging out Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the internal race. Club legend Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly backed Carrick’s appointment, and the former United midfielder has made no secret of his ambition to convert the caretaker role into a full-time reign.
Carrick’s fate, however, will be written on the pitch. A strong second half of the season — ideally capped by Champions League qualification — would dramatically boost his case. Fail to hit those targets and the door to a permanent role could close fast.
Romano Names Tuchel and De Zerbi as Front-Runners
Trusted transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi are already prominent on United’s shortlist. Speaking on YouTube, Romano insisted these two names “will be considered by INEOS,” underlining that both tick a crucial box for the club: Premier League experience and tactical pedigree.
Tuchel, now England’s head coach, brings a proven European résumé — including a Champions League triumph — while De Zerbi has earned plaudits for his progressive, possession-driven football at Brighton and his recent work at Marseille. Both men were reportedly on United’s radar during the summer of 2024, when the club ultimately stuck with Erik ten Hag.
Why United Want Managers with Premier League Know-How
United’s recruitment brief appears clear: the next permanent boss must understand the Premier League’s unique pressures. After two high-profile appointments — Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim — failed to deliver, the club is prioritising candidates who have navigated England’s top flight before. Tuchel and De Zerbi fit that profile, and Romano expects the final shortlist to include additional names with similar credentials.
Other Names in the Frame
Beyond Tuchel and De Zerbi, Old Trafford insiders are said to be eyeing a broader pool. Reported contenders include Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and Mauricio Pochettino — all managers with experience in England or a track record of building competitive, coherent teams. The common thread: tactical clarity, Premier League familiarity, and the ability to steady a club in transition.
A Long, Deliberate Process Ahead
Romano stressed that United’s search will be methodical rather than rushed. With Carrick installed as interim boss, the club can afford to take its time, weigh options and wait until the summer — and the World Cup calendar — before making a definitive call. For now, the Old Trafford hot seat is occupied, the shortlist is forming, and the summer promises to be one of the most consequential managerial hunts in recent memory.
What to Watch Next
All eyes will be on Carrick’s results and United’s position come season’s end. A Champions League spot could transform the narrative and hand Carrick a fighting chance. If not, the club’s board — guided by INEOS and informed by scouts and advisors — will have a high-calibre shortlist ready, with Tuchel and De Zerbi leading the charge.
