Manchester United have identified Aston Villa boss Unai Emery as a top target to replace Michael Carrick in their dugout.
Manchester United are considering Unai Emery as Michael Carrick’s replacement, according to The Guardian, after the club’s worst league start since 1986. The Aston Villa manager remains highly regarded by United’s hierarchy, with sporting director Jason Wilcox among those impressed by his work at Villa Park.
However, another report from TEAMtalk suggests securing the Spaniard’s services would be extremely difficult given his current commitments.
Carrick’s position has come under increasing scrutiny following Manchester United’s humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como on Wednesday. The result adds to pressure mounting after just two wins from the opening 11 games this season.
The 45-year-old is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, but Manchester United are drawing up contingency plans should results fail to improve. While the club continue to insist that he has their backing, assessing alternatives has become necessary.
The 54-year-old guided Aston Villa to their first major trophy since 1996 by winning the UEFA Europa League last season, while also overseeing a fourth-place Premier League finish. His Champions League pedigree and disciplined approach provide a stark contrast to United’s current instability.
Landing Emery in a mid-season deal appears unlikely
Emery’s achievements with Sevilla, Paris Saint-Germain, and Villarreal underscore his standing as one of Europe’s most experienced managers. Nevertheless, Manchester United face significant obstacles if they attempt to bring him to Old Trafford.
The Spanish tactician is contracted to Villa until 2029, meaning any approach would likely require substantial compensation and negotiations with a club reluctant to lose its manager. His reported annual salary of between £10 million and £12 million may complicate negotiations further.
With Aston Villa having established themselves among the Premier League’s leading sides under his leadership, persuading Emery to leave midway through the season would be particularly challenging. The club must first decide whether Carrick’s position has become untenable before pursuing a replacement.
Sunday’s match against Bournemouth is crucial to Michael Carrick’s future. Meanwhile, Unai Emery’s presence on Manchester United’s shortlist reflects the calibre of manager they are looking at should a change prove necessary.
