The Verdict on Eddie Howe as Manchester United Weigh Up Life After Carrick

Manchester United would consider appointing Eddie Howe as Michael Carrick's replacement if the club ultimately decides a managerial change is necessary, according to reports from Football Insider, with two specific factors said to be working in Howe's favour.

Carrick was handed the permanent job in the summer after exceeding expectations as interim boss, steering United to a top-three Premier League finish and Champions League qualification following Ruben Amorim's troubled spell in charge. This season has been far less forgiving.

A difficult start

United have taken just five points from their first five Premier League matches and were eliminated from the Carabao Cup after surrendering a two-goal lead against Brighton, results that have reportedly left Carrick among the favourites to become the first Premier League manager sacked this season.

• Carrick's record: top-three finish and Champions League qualification last season
• This season: five points from five Premier League games
• Cup exit: Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton after leading 2-0
• Howe: out of work since leaving Newcastle in pre-season

Why Howe

The report describes Howe as ticking "two big boxes" for United's hierarchy: substantial Premier League experience and Champions League exposure from his time at Newcastle. Howe has also long been discussed as a future England manager, which adds weight to suggestions he would be highly selective about his next move.

Fabrizio Romano reported separately this week that United have no immediate plans to remove Carrick, while noting two further names have also been discussed internally as potential alternatives. For now, the message from Old Trafford is patience — but the contingency planning is clearly already underway.