Leading English media report that Manchester United plans to appoint a permanent new manager after the 2026 World Cup, with one of the main targets being Carlo Ancelotti, the current Brazil national team coach.
On 6 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Manchester United began another transitional era after officially parting ways with Portuguese coach Rúben Amorim. Darren Fletcher, a former club midfielder, was appointed interim manager to lead the team in the upcoming midweek match away against Burnley.
Amid ongoing searches for a new manager, several high-profile coaches have been linked to the “Red Devils.” Recently, Chris Wheeler, a Manchester United reporter for the Daily Mail, revealed that the club is seriously interested in Carlo Ancelotti, the highly experienced Italian coach.
The report states that Ancelotti is among the top candidates considered by Manchester United’s board for the long-term managerial position. The club plans to appoint a permanent manager after the 2026 World Cup, while possibly using an interim coach to stabilize the team for the remainder of the season.
Currently, Carlo Ancelotti leads the Brazil national team and is preparing to take the “Samba” squad to the 2026 World Cup scheduled for mid-year, meaning any negotiations with Manchester United are unlikely to happen soon.
However, with his multiple European titles, championships across the five major European leagues, and proven ability to manage superstars, “Don Carlo” is seen as well-suited to restore Manchester United’s former glory when the time comes for serious talks between both parties.
