All of the most successful teams in the Premier League in recent years have built their success on squad continuity and the continued support of their managers.
However, the past 13 years have been the exact opposite for United, with 11 interim and permanent managers trying to bring success back to Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick is the latest to try his luck, signing a two-year deal this summer after impressing in his brief spell in 2025/26.
Despite the demands for stability over the past few years, a change of head coach is likely to happen if the club’s fortunes in the Premier League fail to change.
Why Manchester United’s start to the new season is bad news for Carrick
The Mancunian was excited about his chances of success this season after signing him on a permanent deal this month, but the Red Devils have once again proven to be struggling.
Carrick’s side have won just one of their first five league games of the new season and suffered two defeats against Hull City and city rivals Manchester City.
As a result, the club currently sit in 12th place heading into the first international break, but the underlying numbers show why the manager is under increasing pressure.
The Red Devils have the second-highest shots on target per 90 but have scored just eight goals in five games, including five in one game against Ipswich Town.
The figures suggest Old Trafford’s attacking options are failing in front of goal – with Carrick focusing much of his efforts on improving midfield this summer.
Manchester United PL attacking statistics (2026/27) | ||
|---|---|---|
Statistics | all | PL ranking |
Target | 8 | fifth place |
Goals per game | 1.60 | fifth place |
xG | 10.18 | second place |
xG per game | 2.04 | second place |
lens | 113 | first place |
Shot on target | 28 | second place |
Defensively, his side were equally inept at crucial moments, with United making the fewest clearances in the league, underscoring their inability to deal with crosses into the box.
These mistakes have led to embarrassing defeats this season, with Erling Haaland’s winning goal on Derby Day coming from difficulties passing the ball in the 18-yard area.
How Manchester United hired the perfect Carrick replacement
Debate continues over Carrick’s long-term future in Manchester, with Brighton and Hove Albion boss Fabian Schüzeler emerging as a possible replacement.
The German has lost just one of his five league games this season before leading the Seagulls to wins over defending champions Arsenal and Europa League winners Aston Villa.
Despite being 33 years old, he has earned huge admiration for his management style, even posting a 45% win rate in his two years at AMEX Stadium.
However, he is not the only option to replace the current Red Devils boss, with former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe deserving of a return to the Premier League.
The Englishman has been linked with the Old Trafford job in recent years and his availability as a free agent should make him an attractive target for Ineos.
The 48-year-old has been in charge of the Magpies for almost six years and has achieved a 50 per cent winning rate – a higher winning rate than Huszler despite being in charge longer.
He has also translated his dominance into trophies over the past few years, winning Carabao Cup glory in the 2024/25 season, ending the Magpies’ 70-year wait for silverware. This is the main reason why Jamie Carragher has backed him to become the “next England manager”.
Experience like this could be crucial for United in the near future as they also look to end their incredible 13-year wait for a Premier League title.
Howe’s time at Newcastle saw him transform the club from relegation candidates to consistent European contenders, with former Magpies player Mike Williamson describing him as “first class“.
The Red Devils have experienced their own struggles of late, as seen in the 2024/25 season, when the club recorded their worst Premier League finish after finishing the season in 15th place.
Howe’s experience of taking a struggling club to great heights should make him the best candidate to succeed at United and be the man to replace Carrick.
There’s no denying Huzelle has proven to be an impressive top-flight manager, but his lack of experience in transforming England’s struggling sides could be a concern.
As a result, Ineos should seriously consider appointing the 48-year-old in the coming months – especially if Carrick leaves early in the near future.