Manchester United Eye Antonio Conte Return Amid Struggles Under Michael Carrick
Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing back Antonio Conte as manager after a rocky start to their 2026-27 Premier League campaign under Michael Carrick.
Plans in Place Should Carrick Be Replaced
The club has been underwhelmed by recent performances, prompting officials to prepare for a potential managerial switch. After appointing Carrick permanently and signing new players in the summer, expectations were high. Yet defeats against Hull City, Manchester City, and Brighton have left the team searching for consistency.
Conte Tops the List for the Old Trafford Role
Calciomercato reports that Conte, who previously managed Chelsea and Tottenham, is the preferred choice if the club decides to part ways with Carrick. The 57-year-old Italian coach, currently unemployed after leaving Napoli last season, has been contacted to check his interest and availability.
Although there was speculation about Conte returning to the Italy national team, with Roberto Mancini holding that position now, a return to the Premier League seems more plausible.
Worrying Domestic Form Adds Pressure
Despite comfortable home wins over Ipswich Town and Sabah in Europe, United’s overall league form remains troubling. Their loss to Brighton was particularly damaging, ending a 50-year record of never losing at home when leading 2-0. Such setbacks have increased scrutiny on Carrick’s role.
He faces a critical three-week international break to find ways to boost the squad’s performance and regain the momentum seen late last season.
Crucial Matches Await After International Break
Post-break, United will host struggling Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, where Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi is also under pressure. Failing to win could seriously harm Carrick’s chances of remaining in charge.
Soon after, United travel to Spain for a tough Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. If results do not improve dramatically during these fixtures, Conte’s arrival in Manchester might be sooner than expected.
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Date: 10 Oct 2026
- Time: 19:30
- Match: Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur
