Man United latest: Interest in Michael Carrick replacement cools ahead of crunch Aston Villa game

Interest in Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann as Carrick replacements has cooled significantly as United prepare to face Aston Villa.

Manchester United host Aston Villa in the Premier League with manager Michael Carrick fighting for his job after ending a nine-match winless run with a midweek comeback victory against Roma. The Independent reports that interest in the two leading managerial candidates—Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann—has cooled considerably.

Nagelsmann's stock has dropped due to concerns about his time at Bayern Munich and questions over his personality and approach, while United are understood to be less convinced by Howe than previously thought. Other alternatives under consideration include Sebastian Hoeness, Fabian Hurzeler, and Cesc Fabregas, though each presents significant obstacles.

The club remains in limbo over Carrick's future, with sources suggesting indecision at the highest level and uncertainty over a suitable replacement. Aston Villa arrive unbeaten in five league games with striker Nicolas Jackson in form, having scored five goals in his last five matches.