Man Utd identify Premier League manager as ‘standout’ Michael Carrick replacement

According to a report by Metro on Wednesday October 14, 2026, Manchester United have identified Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler as a potential replacement for Michael Carrick if the club decide to part ways with their current manager.

According to The Sun, the 33-year-old German has emerged as a standout candidate amid growing pressure on Carrick following United’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 season.

Carrick was appointed permanently over the summer after an impressive interim spell, during which United collected more points than any other Premier League side following his arrival in January last season. However, his team have struggled in the new campaign, recording just two wins from their first nine games and going five matches without a victory in all competitions.

United’s latest setback came against Atletico Madrid, further intensifying scrutiny of Carrick’s position. The pressure on the club has also increased following Lisandro Martinez’s criticism of United’s ambition and spending during the summer transfer window.

Hurzeler, meanwhile, has impressed since taking charge of Brighton in 2024, guiding the Seagulls to consecutive eighth-place finishes. Brighton have also made a strong start this season, including a 3-0 victory over Arsenal that left them third after six league matches.

Despite signing a new contract earlier this summer, Hurzeler could attract interest from a bigger club. Brighton owner Tony Bloom has admitted that the club are prepared for the possibility of losing key figures if wealthier teams come calling.

Former United midfielder Paul Scholes has also praised Hurzeler, describing him as the “real deal”, although he warned that managing at Old Trafford would bring significantly greater scrutiny and expectations than at Brighton.

However, there is no indication that United are preparing to sack Carrick immediately. The manager will need to improve results in the coming weeks to ease the pressure, while Hurzeler remains a reported option should the club decide to make a change.

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