Manchester United given Unai Emery approval amid new Michael Carrick sack decision

Unai Emery is being identified as Manchester United's top managerial target to replace Michael Carrick, who faces assessment after upcoming matches against Roma and Aston Villa.

Manchester United are considering their managerial options following a difficult period, with Unai Emery emerging as the clear first-choice target to replace Michael Carrick. The current United head coach faces evaluation after a crucial double-header: a Champions League tie against Roma on Tuesday and a Premier League match against Emery's Aston Villa on Sunday.

Former Manchester United defender Richard Dunne has backed Emery as the priority, praising his work at Villa Park despite operating with restricted resources compared to rivals. "Unai Emery has to be right at the top of the shortlist for Man United," Dunne said. "He's proven what he can do at Aston Villa with restricted funds, making his signings work brilliantly." However, Dunne acknowledged that persuading Emery to leave Villa would be difficult given the authority and control he enjoys there.

Former United midfielder Nicky Butt suggested the club faces a binary choice: either commit to Carrick for two years to build a squad, or replace him. Dunne also highlighted deeper structural issues at United, pointing to ownership, recruitment strategy and executive leadership as long-term problems that extend beyond the managerial position.