Man Utd Manager Search Takes New Twist Hours After Humiliating FA Cup Exit

The search for Manchester United's new boss has taken a new twist after their FA Cup exit.

On Sunday afternoon, United began their quest for FA Cup glory with a third round tie against Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford.

Led by Darren Fletcher, who took charge after Ruben Amorim's exit, the Red Devils produced a poor display.

Goals from Brajan Gruda and Danny Welbeck gave Brighton a 2-0 lead before Benjamin Sesko got United back in the match in the 85th minute.

Teenage sensation Shea Lacey was then sent off after receiving two yellow cards in as many minutes, with United eventually losing 2-1.

As a result, United will now only play 40 matches in the 25/26 season, their lowest tally for 111 years.

• If you want to see even more from SPORTbible, make us a preferred source on Google.

Darren Fletcher has been in charge since Ruben Amorim's sacking. Image: Getty

Since Amorim's departure, it has been claimed that United are looking for a caretaker manager to take charge until the end of the season.

Last week, it emerged that ex-player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had become the leading candidate for the role.

However, hours after the Brighton defeat, an update was delivered.

According to the Daily Mail's Mike Keegan, Michael Carrick has now become the leading candidate to be United's interim manager.

It has been claimed that both Carrick and Solskjaer met with chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, with the former delivering 'a strong interview', which 'impressed both officials'.

United are expected to finalise and announce a decision on Monday.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports' Rob Dorsett wrote on social media: "MUFC will accelerate process in next 24-48hrs with further detailed talks around Carrick and Solskjaer. Carrick v impressive in meetings with club bosses, I’m told, but awareness too of how popular Ole was in previous stint as head coach. Key talks and decisions to be made tmrw."

Michael Carrick has emerged as the leading candidate. Image: Getty

What has Darren Fletcher said about his future?

Speaking after the defeat by Brighton, Fletcher stated that he has had 'zero indications' on who will become United's new boss.

He said: "I've had no discussions. I have to report tomorrow morning to Carrington, that is all I know.

"I will find out tomorrow morning. I have had zero indications. All my focus has been on this [Burnley and Brighton]."

Fletcher added: "It is a massive responsibility to lead this club and I have given it my best and I am disappointed not to win a game.

"I think there are some good things there but ultimately it wasn't enough. I am more disappointed than anyone."