Manchester United Identify Favourite to Replace Michael Carrick Just Hours After 4-1 Defeat to Como

According to a report by Metro on October 21, 2026, Eddie Howe has emerged as the favourite to replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager following the club’s embarrassing 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como.

Carrick is facing growing pressure after United suffered another disappointing result in Italy on Wednesday night. Cesc Fabregas’ Como side dominated the Premier League giants, scoring four goals before Joshua Zirkzee grabbed a late consolation for the visitors.

Nico Paz scored twice, while Tasos Douvikas and Jacobo Ramon also found the net to secure a convincing victory for the Italian side.

The defeat came just days after United drew 1-1 with Leeds United, a result Carrick had viewed as containing several positives. However, the loss to Como has increased scrutiny of his position, with the Red Devils having won just two of their first 11 matches across all competitions in the 2026/27 campaign, according to the report.

Despite the mounting pressure, Manchester United’s hierarchy had appeared willing to give Carrick more time to improve results. Nevertheless, another disappointing performance could intensify calls for a managerial change.

According to bookmakers Betfair, former Newcastle United manager Howe is currently the leading candidate to take over if United decide to part ways with Carrick.

Howe, 48, has been out of work since leaving Newcastle in July. During his five-year spell at St James’ Park, he guided the club to Champions League qualification and helped them win the Carabao Cup.

Former Chelsea and Napoli manager Antonio Conte is listed as the second favourite at 5/1, alongside Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler, who has also attracted attention as a potential candidate.

Julian Nagelsmann follows at 7/1, while Kieran McKenna is priced at 8/1. Como manager Fabregas is another name in the betting, with odds of 11/1.

Meanwhile, former England midfielder Joe Cole has defended Carrick, arguing that Manchester United’s problems extend beyond the manager.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Cole described the defeat as humbling and suggested that the club’s longstanding structural problems and the quality of some players were contributing factors.

United captain Bruno Fernandes also criticised the team’s slow start against Como, highlighting the importance of showing greater bravery and composure in possession.

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