Nagelsmann ready to listen as Hurzeler rules out Manchester United amid Carrick pressure

Julian Nagelsmann is open to taking over at Manchester United should the club part ways with Michael Carrick, whose position is under serious threat following a 4-1 defeat to Como in midweek. The former Bayern Munich and Germany head coach, 39, would listen to an approach from Old Trafford, according to The Telegraph, and is considered a leading candidate for the role.

Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s home fixture against Bournemouth, but United’s hierarchy are actively weighing a managerial change as the season risks a complete collapse. The Como defeat has intensified an already fractious atmosphere, with captain Bruno Fernandes publicly criticising Carrick’s tactical decisions — a charge the manager deflected by questioning the squad’s work-rate.

Nagelsmann had been in contention for the United job last summer before Carrick was appointed on a permanent basis. A move was shelved at the time as the German prepared to lead his country at the World Cup, but he resigned following Germany’s round-of-32 exit and is now available for club management. He has previously attracted interest from Chelsea and Tottenham.

Fabian Hurzeler, the Brighton head coach who has been widely touted as a potential Carrick successor, appears unlikely to make the move. The 33-year-old does not have a release clause in his contract, and Brighton are reported to have no concerns about losing him. With the Seagulls sitting third in the Premier League and chasing Champions League football, Hurzeler is said to have no interest in the United position at this stage, reportedly preferring to hold out for opportunities at clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich or Arsenal — moves that may be several years away.

Antonio Conte is also believed to have interest in the role, though doubts persist over whether his management style would suit the club’s current environment. Former Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe, who is out of work, is another name under consideration.