Eddie Howe reportedly Jason Wilcox’s preferred Manchester United option if Michael Carrick is replaced

Eddie Howe is reportedly Jason Wilcox’s preferred candidate to replace Michael Carrick if Manchester United decide to change manager, with Premier League experience central to the director of football’s thinking.

Jamie Jackson reports in the Guardian that Wilcox favours the former Newcastle United and Bournemouth manager. The development concerns a possible successor: it does not establish that United have decided to dismiss Carrick or appoint Howe.

talkSPORT has also reported Wilcox’s preference for Howe, with Carrick expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s home match against Bournemouth.

Carrick faces Bournemouth after Como defeat

The managerial speculation follows United’s 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como, which extended their run without a victory to seven matches.

Nico Paz scored twice as Cesc Fàbregas’s side overwhelmed United, leaving Carrick to apologise to the travelling supporters.

In his post-match interviews, published by United, Carrick accepted responsibility for the team’s performance.

“I 100% take responsibility for the overall team and the performance,” he said.

Carrick also questioned his side’s intensity, discipline and willingness to work, making clear that the problems went beyond individual mistakes.

Bournemouth now provide the next test of United’s response. The immediate task for Carrick is to produce a performance that addresses those failings while speculation continues around his position.

Howe’s Newcastle record provides the background

Howe left Newcastle in July after nearly five years in charge. His tenure included the 2025 Carabao Cup triumph and two qualifications for the Champions League, although his final season ended with the club 12th in the Premier League.

PA’s report on his departure recorded his decision to step away and take a break.

That record offers relevant context for the interest, but the reported preference should not be confused with a completed recruitment process.

As explored in our analysis of Manchester United under INEOS, another managerial change would also leave questions for those responsible for recruitment and the club’s football direction.

For now, the development is that Howe has emerged as Wilcox’s reported choice should United make a change. Carrick’s departure remains conditional.