Antonio Conte Reportedly Contacted by Manchester United as Michael Carrick Faces Pressure

Manchester United have reportedly made first contact with Antonio Conte, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato. The report describes the 57-year-old as the club’s leading target should they part company with Michael Carrick.

Why Is Michael Carrick Under Pressure at Manchester United?

United have collected five points from their opening five Premier League fixtures. They lost 2-0 at newly promoted Hull City, fell 1-0 at Old Trafford to a ten-man Manchester City, then drew 1-1 with Fulham. A Carabao Cup exit at Brighton, after squandering a two-goal lead, added to the gloom.

Some reports suggest the club will not act rashly during the international break, while others claim the axe could fall if results do not improve before November.

Has Manchester United Really Contacted Antonio Conte?

Calciomercato says initial approaches were made to gauge his availability, yet English reports citing sources close to the club insist no contact has taken place. Nothing is confirmed.

Conte has been without a club since leaving Napoli in May. He won the Scudetto there in 2024/25 and the Supercoppa Italiana last December, having also claimed the Premier League title with Chelsea in 2016/17. Juventus have been linked with him too.

Other Managers Linked With the Old Trafford Job

Eddie Howe left Newcastle at the end of last season and could be appointed without compensation. Unai Emery would be harder to prise away from Aston Villa, whom he guided to Europa League glory in May, and he is contracted until 2029.

Our Take on the Conte Rumour

Conte’s knack for reviving struggling squads makes him an obvious name, but his demanding style and history of boardroom friction could worry a club craving stability. Dismissing Carrick this early would be a bold move, and Howe looks the calmer, more sustainable option. Much may depend on the next few results.