Former Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has been analyzing Manchester United fixtures and taking notes while Michael Carrick faces the risk of losing his job. Howe stands as a leading candidate to step in for Carrick if the club legend gets dismissed prior to Saturday's away match at Chelsea.
Carrick faces intense pressure after Manchester United suffered their sixth loss in 12 matches following a 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday, which places the team merely one point above the relegation zone.
Club executives, featuring chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, gathered on Monday morning to deliberate on future actions.
Sources indicate that Carrick is scheduled to arrive at Carrington this afternoon to observe the Under-21 team face Hull City in a match behind closed doors.
Players and staff members at United typically receive a day off following a fixture, and this routine remained unchanged despite recording a sixth loss in 12 games.
Both Julian Nagelsmann and Howe have been contacted regarding potential successor roles for Carrick, though United have not yet submitted an official approach for Antonio Conte.
Club board members remain divided on potential choices, with Wilcox supporting a manager with Premier League experience while the head of recruitment suggests Nagelsmann.
Informed sources report that Howe is the preferred choice of Wilcox, who considers a coach with background in the Premier League essential for steering United back onto a positive path.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the minority owner, has consistently favored having an English manager in charge, maintaining that the premier club in the country ought to feature the finest domestic boss.
Howe previously guided Bournemouth to promotion into the Premier League and claimed the Carabao Cup while at Newcastle, alongside leading the team in the Champions League.
Following his resignation as Newcastle manager in July, Howe stated an intention to pause his involvement in football to recover his energy.
Reports indicate that he would welcome discussions with United if the position opens up.
