By Islam El-Sakka
Manchester United are evaluating Eddie Howe as a potential successor to Michael Carrick should the current manager's position become untenable, according to multiple sources. The speculation comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos era faces scrutiny over football decisions since the minority takeover in early 2024.
Howe's managerial track record
Howe, 48, has been out of work since leaving Newcastle United in the summer of 2026. His career includes leading Bournemouth from League Two relegation trouble in 2009 to Premier League establishment by 2015. At Newcastle, appointed in 2021, he guided the club from relegation danger to two Champions League qualifications and secured the EFL Cup in 2025 — the club's first trophy in 56 years. He also oversaw profitable player development and recruitment, including signings such as Bruno Guimarães, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Gordon.
Mixed reception from fans and pundits
Howe's potential appointment has drawn divided opinions. Sections of the United fanbase have expressed skepticism on social media about his profile for such a high-profile role. Former players Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt withheld backing on their podcast, though they supported Howe when Ruben Amorim was dismissed in January. Conversely, Roy Keane, Darren Bent, Gareth Barry, and Jack Wilshere have publicly endorsed him.
Financial and structural considerations
Any move for Howe would involve a compensation payment to Newcastle, understood to have started at £6 million and reduced by half, with an expiry before the end of the season. United's hierarchy — chief executive Omar Berrada, sporting director Jason Wilcox, and recruitment director Christopher Vivell — must also assess how Howe would operate within a structure that limits the autonomy he enjoyed at Bournemouth and Newcastle. Howe has previously worked alongside sporting directors, including Richard Hughes and Dan Ashworth, suggesting adaptation is feasible.
Decision timeline hinges on Carrick's fate
Carrick's immediate future may be influenced by Saturday's match against Chelsea. Wilcox is reported to favor Howe, while Vivell prefers former Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann. Final authority rests with Berrada, Ratcliffe, and co-chairs Joel and Avram Glazer. The outcome will signal the strategic direction United intend to pursue amid ongoing supporter disillusionment.
