Nagelsmann, Howe and McKenna among five names on United's managerial shortlist after Como humiliation

Manchester United are weighing up a five-man managerial shortlist after club officials were left ‘stunned’ by a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, with scrutiny intensifying on interim manager Michael Carrick following just two wins in 11 matches.

According to reports from The Mail Online and The Times, Julian Nagelsmann, Fabian Hurzeler, Antonio Conte, Eddie Howe and Kieran McKenna have all been identified as candidates for the Old Trafford role. Carrick’s position is described as safe for now, but the scale of the Como loss has accelerated internal discussions.

Of the five names, Hurzeler is the only one currently in a job, continuing to lead Brighton & Hove Albion through a strong Premier League and European campaign. The Telegraph has reported that he has admirers at Old Trafford, though he holds no release clause in his contract and prising him away could command a record fee for a managerial appointment.

Nagelsmann, Howe and McKenna are all currently without clubs. Nagelsmann departed as Germany head coach following a disappointing World Cup exit, while Howe left Newcastle United in the summer after back-to-back impressive seasons with the Magpies. McKenna, who guided Ipswich Town to promotion before stepping down in June 2026, had previously been linked with United during the uncertainty surrounding Erik ten Hag’s tenure — with United and Chelsea both said to have held meetings with the Northern Irishman during his time at Portman Road.

Conte’s name had surfaced in recent days, with intermediaries reportedly putting the former Napoli and Chelsea manager forward as a candidate. However, The Telegraph has since reported that he is no longer under consideration, as he does not fit the managerial structure United are looking to build.

Carrick is set to remain in charge as United face Bournemouth on Sunday, but the pressure from a result that club officials reportedly did not see coming will do little to ease the scrutiny on his position.