Man Utd line up Eddie Howe to replace Michael Carrick

United executives discussed sacking Carrick on Sunday night after the club's worst Premier League start in 40 years, with Eddie Howe identified as the leading replacement candidate.

Manchester United have identified Eddie Howe as their leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick, with club executives locked in discussions on Sunday night over whether to sack the manager following the club's worst Premier League start in 40 years.

Director of football Jason Wilcox is pushing for Howe, believing a coach with Premier League experience is essential to turn United around. Howe is understood to be interested in the role despite initially planning to take a break after leaving Newcastle. Owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has long preferred an English manager at the helm.

Other candidates being considered include Julian Nagelsmann, Unai Emery, and Antonio Conte. Head of recruitment Christopher Vivell favours Nagelsmann, while several executives see Emery as their top pick despite concerns over cost. Some in the hierarchy sympathise with Carrick, feeling he was not backed sufficiently in the transfer window, though as of Sunday night it remains most likely he will be sacked.