Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Thu 5 March 2026 9:43, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Manchester United may be set to decide against appointing Michael Carrick as their permanent manager in the summer.

The Red Devils were beaten 2-1 by Newcastle United on Wednesday night, despite playing the entire second half against 10 men.

Jacob Ramsey was shown a controversial second yellow card for an apparent dive just before the break, but the Magpies would strike first nonetheless.

Anthony Gordon was fouled and scored from the spot, but Casemiro would level the scores just three minutes later.

Newcastle secured the win over Man United in the closing stages when Will Osula found the net with a stunning strike.

Man United manager odds twist dramatically

For weeks, Carrick has been the nailed-on favourite to be appointed as the permanent Man United manager.

The 44-year-old’s interim tenure began with an incredible four-game run of victories, which included wins over Man City, Arsenal and Tottenham.

And despite a disappointing draw at West Ham last month, the Red Devils had picked up form again by beating Everton and Crystal Palace.

Wednesday’s loss was damning, however. Despite having a man advantage for the entirety of the second half, Carrick’s team looked second-best throughout.

Former Everton chief Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Man United will appoint Carrick permanently if he can secure Champions League football, and he remains in a strong position to do so.

Despite Wednesday’s blow, the Red Devils remain third and three points clear of both Chelsea and Liverpool.

But having been the overwhelming favourite just weeks ago, one major bookmaker has seen Carrick’s odds drift to 10/9.

Who are Michael Carrick’s main competitors?

Oliver Glasner is the bookies’ choice as second-favourite for the Man United job, with the Austrian set to be available this summer when he leaves Crystal Palace.

Julien Nagelsmann also appears to be in the running, although it is still unclear whether the German will relinquish management of the international team after the World Cup.

Other contenders include Gareth Southgate and Luis Enrique, although there is less substance to such names.

Carrick undoubtedly remains the favourite, and he will have the chance to prove Wednesday’s result was nothing but a blip.