Manchester United are reportedly preparing to part ways with manager Michael Carrick following a disastrous start to their Premier League campaign. The club's hierarchy has identified United States national team coach Mauricio Pochettino as the leading candidate to take charge, with growing concerns over the team's performances and their position near the bottom of the table.

United's disappointing results have intensified pressure on Carrick, whose side have managed just one victory in their opening 10 league matches. Despite being given additional time to turn things around, the former midfielder has struggled to deliver meaningful improvements. Club executives, including Joel Glazer, Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, are now reviewing the situation and increasingly believe a managerial change is necessary.

Pochettino has emerged as the preferred option because of his Premier League experience and reputation for rebuilding struggling teams. The Argentine coach, who previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, recently extended his contract with the United States Soccer Federation until 2030. However, his agreement reportedly includes a $10 million release clause, which Manchester United would need to pay to secure his services.

Several other managers are also being considered as potential replacements. Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is admired by the club's leadership, while Julian Nagelsmann and Kieran McKenna remain among the alternatives. Nevertheless, Pochettino is viewed as the strongest candidate, particularly because he has previously been interviewed for the Manchester United job on three occasions and is considered capable of handling the pressure at Old Trafford.

Carrick's uncertain future marks a dramatic change from last season, when he guided United to Champions League qualification after taking over as interim manager in January. His achievements earned him a two-year contract during the summer, but this season's disappointing performances have significantly weakened the club's confidence in him. With United preparing to face Liverpool at Anfield on November 22, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether Carrick remains in charge or Pochettino takes over to revive the club's fortunes.