Nagelsmann, Conte, Howe - Man Utd shortlist for next manager after Como debacle

Manchester United have been left red-faced after suffering a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League, with increased scrutiny now placed on Michael Carrick following the humiliating loss

Julian Nagelsmann, Fabian Hurzeler, Antonio Conte, Eddie Howe and Kieran McKenna have all been mentioned as potential contenders to take charge of Manchester United. Pressure on Michael Carrick has intensified following a humiliating 4-1 loss to Serie A minnows Como in the Champions League.

The Mail Online has identified several names who could be in the frame to succeed Carrick in the Old Trafford dugout, though the coach is said to be safe ahead of the clash with Bournemouth. Hurzeler is the only candidate currently employed, with the German looking to steer Brighton and Hove Albion through an impressive run in both the Premier League and European competition.

The Telegraph has reported that the highly-regarded boss has admirers at Old Trafford, though he does not have a release clause written into his contract. Given that Brighton have already commanded eye-watering sums for their coaches, it is suggested that luring Hurzeler away could cost a record-breaking fee.

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Meanwhile, the likes of Nagelsmann, Conte, Howe and McKenna have all been without a club since departing their previous roles. Nagelsmann most recently managed the German national side before stepping down following a disappointing World Cup campaign with Die Mannschaft.

Howe has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford on the back of impressive spells at Bournemouth and Newcastle United, but parted ways with the Magpies during the summer, just before the new Premier League season kicked off. McKenna had been viewed as a potential candidate during the speculation over Erik ten Hag's future.

United were reported to be amongst two clubs, alongside Chelsea, to have held talks with the Northern Irishman during his successful period at Ipswich Town.

After standing down as manager in June 2026, he was said to be eyeing an extended break, but he is already being touted for a return to United.

Over recent days, reports have surfaced that Conte is willing to make the switch to Old Trafford. Having been away from management since his time with Napoli in Serie A, the Italian's name was believed to have been circulated by intermediaries proposing him as Carrick's replacement.

Back in 2018, while in charge at Chelsea, a Man United shirt bearing 'Conte 1' was presented to the Italian by a prankster pretending it was a gift from Jose Mourinho following a heated feud between the two.

However, the Telegraph have confirmed that he is not being considered as he does not suit the managerial framework at Old Trafford.

Nevertheless, Carrick's position remains secure for the time being as he battles for his future in the Old Trafford hot seat. With only two victories in 11 fixtures, he will be at the helm to take on Bournemouth on Sunday (2pm kick-off).

According to The Times, club officials were left 'stunned' by the lacklustre display and believe they must shoulder some of the responsibility for the decline in results under Carrick's tenure. The 45-year-old delivered a phenomenal run during his spell as caretaker boss last season, earning him the role as Ruben Amorim's permanent successor.