Eddie Howe is reportedly willing to discuss becoming Manchester United’s next manager despite leaving Newcastle United to take a break from coaching.
According to Sky Sports, Howe is interested in speaking to United as the club considers its options following Michael Carrick’s difficult spell in charge
A 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth has intensified pressure on Carrick, with pundits and reports suggesting his position is increasingly uncertain.
TEAMtalk reports that United director of football Jason Wilcox has identified Howe as his preferred candidate to replace Carrick. The 48-year-old is also reportedly among the leading contenders alongside Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Howe’s Newcastle departure raises questions
Howe left Newcastle on July 30 after nearly five years in charge, explaining that he wanted time to recharge after an intense period at the club.
“After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role as head coach of Newcastle United,” he said.
“After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.”
During his tenure, Howe guided Newcastle to their first major domestic trophy in decades by winning the League Cup. He also led the club into the Champions League on two occasions.
His Premier League experience is understood to be a major attraction for United as the club evaluates potential replacements.
Reports suggest Wilcox favours Howe, while United recruitment director Christopher Vivell is pushing for Nagelsmann. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to have a say in the final decision, although no appointment has been confirmed.
Carragher calls for Carrick’s removal
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has urged United to dismiss Carrick following the Bournemouth defeat, arguing that the club cannot continue with its current results.
“Manchester United need to make that change tonight. It’s getting to the stage where it’s not nice to see watching Michael Carrick,” Carragher said.
He also pointed to the support Carrick has received from United fans, suggesting the manager’s status as a former club figure has strengthened his position with supporters.
“Manchester United as a football club, one of the biggest in the world are 16th in the Premier League right now, and that can’t happen,” he added.
Carragher said Carrick should be relieved of his duties for the benefit of both the club and the manager.
If appointed, Howe is reportedly expected to seek reinforcements at centre-back, left-back, left wing and centre-forward. However, those potential transfer plans remain speculative while United’s managerial situation is unresolved.