Conte tops Man United shortlist as Carrick insists he feels no pressure after Brighton collapse

Antonio Conte is reportedly at the top of Manchester United’s managerial shortlist as pressure mounts on Michael Carrick following a 3-2 Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

United led 2-0 through early goals from Shea Lacey and Mason Mount before Brighton overturned the advantage in a result that left the Stretford End booing and chanting at full-time. It was the first time United had surrendered a two-goal lead in 50 years, and their third loss in six games across all competitions. Carrick’s side have won just one of their opening four Premier League matches.

Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, cited by Sport Witness, claims the club “aren’t entirely sure about Carrick” and have “begun to evaluate his future,” with another managerial change described as something that “could be considered soon.” Conte, who has been out of management since the end of last season, is said to head that shortlist.

The former Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Tottenham manager is believed to be waiting for the right project before returning to the dugout. There is also reported interest from Juventus, who sit eighth in Serie A after winning just two of their opening four games, with pressure growing on coach Luciano Spalletti.

Carrick, speaking after the Brighton defeat, acknowledged the scrutiny but said it does not affect him. “We all know it’s there,” he said. “We know it’s there whether it’s good or whether it’s not good. How you deal with that is the important thing.”

The 45-year-old added: “I don’t feel under pressure. Either way, that doesn’t bother me one bit. I understand what goes on outside and how the world works, but it doesn’t bother me.”

Carrick also reflected on the mood around the club following the latest setback. “It feels pretty quick — a couple of little things go one way and we’ve gone out of the cup tonight, and the feeling around the place feels bigger than that.”

United face Fulham in the Premier League this weekend, a fixture that is shaping up as a significant test of Carrick’s standing at the club.