Michael Carrick Future In Doubt As Odds Slashed On Man Utd Replacement

Michael Carrick's future at Manchester United may be in doubt after a recent development, despite an excellent start to life as manager at Old Trafford.

Carrick was appointed caretaker manager on the basis until the end of the season following on from the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.

The former midfielder brought in Steve Holland and Jonathan Woodgate as part of his coaching team and has enjoyed a dream start at United, with consecutive wins over Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham.

Although it is early days, Carrick already looks to have got United playing a more recognisable brand of football and one that has brought them success in three games after a poor run of form.

United sit in fourth in the Premier League, one point ahead of Chelsea, and look to be hitting their stride at the right time.

Carrick has won all three games in charge of United. Image: Getty

Carrick's contract is only until the end of the campaign, though already many are wondering whether they will appoint him full-time if Champions League football is secured.

Man United manager odds

In terms of permanent managers, a number of coaches have been linked with United - including Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraiola, Marco Silva and Xavi Hernandez.

However, Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique has also been touted as a potential contender and on Friday, Oddschecker confirmed that the Spaniard's odds of being the next permanent manager have slashed.

Though Carrick remains the favourite at 8/11 after a strong start, Enrique now has odds of 16/1.

A free agent in the summer, Glasner is the second favourite with odds of 7/1 - ahead of England boss Thomas Tuchel and Gareth Southgate - both at 12/1.

Enrique led to PSG to a historic treble last season, delivering their first Champions League triumph in style with a 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the final at the Allianz Arena.

The 55-year-old has a contract until 2027 and reports claim the club want to keep Enrique for the long-term and tie him down to a new deal.

Luis Enrique is one of the names tipped to be in contention for the Man United job. Image: Getty

Carrick takes charge of United against former club Spurs on Saturday and the 44-year-old is adamant that uncertainty over the managerial position is not impacting him or the players as they look to return to the highest level of European football.

"The players have been spot on and fully focused," Carrick told a press conference on Thursday.

"We're all aware of the bigger situation and what might happen.

"As a player, you focus on what's ahead of you, trying to achieve what you can.

"I've got no concerns. The lads have been better than you can imagine.

"We're focused on being better, improving and getting to where we want to be. Small steps, but it's a big end to the season."