Julian Nagelsmann would be receptive to becoming Manchester United manager if the club decide to dismiss Michael Carrick following their disastrous start to the season.
According to The Telegraph, the former Germany and Bayern Munich head coach is among the leading candidates United could consider should they make another managerial change.
The 39-year-old is currently available after leaving his position with Germany following their disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.
Nagelsmann is understood to be interested in managing in the Premier League and would be willing to discuss the opportunity with United.
However, no formal approach has been confirmed, with the club continuing to support Carrick despite growing concerns over results and performances.
United have won just twice in 11 matches across all competitions this season and are without a victory in their last seven outings.
Wednesday’s humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como intensified scrutiny of Carrick, whose tactical approach has also attracted criticism.
Captain Bruno Fernandes questioned the team’s response to pressure after the defeat, calling for greater bravery from his teammates.
The result has prompted renewed consideration of potential managerial alternatives, although Carrick remains in charge ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth.
Nagelsmann’s previous relationship with United recruitment director Christopher Vivell could strengthen his candidacy.
The pair worked together at RB Leipzig, while Vivell was also at Chelsea when the London club considered appointing Nagelsmann in 2023.
Nevertheless, the German reportedly has reservations about recruitment structures and would likely seek assurances regarding United’s sporting operations before accepting any offer.
Nagelsmann previously attracted interest from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, while his experience with Bayern and Germany makes him an established candidate.
He was also spotted at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday watching Bayern’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Arsenal.
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler is another figure admired by United, although his long-term contract could complicate any approach.
Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Aston Villa’s Unai Emery are also among the names under consideration.
Carrick signed a two-year contract during the summer after guiding United into the Champions League following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal.
However, the former midfielder now faces increasing pressure to reverse the club’s decline.
Sunday’s encounter with Bournemouth could prove particularly significant, with another disappointing result potentially forcing United’s hierarchy to reconsider their position.
For now, Nagelsmann remains a potential replacement rather than the subject of confirmed negotiations.