Will Manchester United sack Michael Carrick and who could replace him?

Carrick's job remains under threat despite Tuesday's Roma win; a result against Aston Villa this weekend will determine his future.

Michael Carrick's position as Manchester United head coach hangs in the balance after a disappointing start to the season left United out of the relegation zone only on goal difference. While Tuesday's comeback victory over Roma in the Champions League provided temporary respite, the pressure remains intense ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

United's hierarchy held talks about Carrick's future following the 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on October 25 and again after a 2-0 loss to Chelsea. It was agreed that Carrick would oversee the Roma and Aston Villa fixtures before his situation would be reassessed prior to the international break. Despite the Roma win, the first-half performance was poor, and only victory against Villa appears likely to save his job.

If Carrick is sacked, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are the leading contenders to replace him. Both are currently free agents; Howe left Newcastle during the summer and Nagelsmann departed the Germany national team role. Howe is the preferred candidate of director of football Jason Wilcox, though Nagelsmann is highly regarded by head of recruitment Christopher Vivell. United would only need to pay Newcastle £6 million in compensation to appoint Howe.