Man Utd has already chosen their new permanent manager if Michael Carrick does not continue.
On 16 Jan 2026 GMT+7, The Sun, a well-known British media outlet, reported that Manchester United, the Premier League giant, is considering candidates for the new permanent manager position following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last week.
Initially, Man Utd appointed Darren Fletcher, a former player and U18 coach, as caretaker for two games before naming Michael Carrick, the club's legendary former midfielder and ex-staff coach, as interim manager to steady the team until season's end.
Recently, sources revealed that Michael Carrick is unlikely to be among those Man Utd will consider for the permanent manager role this summer, as the 'Red Devils' prioritize a candidate with Premier League experience.
The Sun further reported that one contender under consideration by Man Utd is Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique Marseille, who previously managed Brighton and proved his capabilities in the Premier League.
Roberto De Zerbi made his name in the Premier League after moving from Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk in 2022. He led Brighton to a sixth-place finish in the 2022-23 Premier League season, securing their first-ever qualification for the Europa League in the club's 122-year history.
The Sun also disclosed that Roberto De Zerbi was interviewed by Man Utd in May 2024 when INEOS, the new co-owner recently taking over from the Glazer family, was seeking a replacement for Erik ten Hag.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail also reported that Roberto De Zerbi remains popular among Man Utd executives after leading Olympique Marseille to second place in last season's Ligue 1. This season, Marseille is third behind Lens and Paris Saint-Germain.
Although Roberto De Zerbi is contracted with Marseille until 2027, reports suggest he is interested in returning to manage in the Premier League, presenting a good opportunity for Man Utd if they choose him as their new permanent manager.
