Man Utd contacts Deschamps as potential Carrick replacement; no interest shown

Manchester United have made contact with Didier Deschamps in recent days to explore the possibility of him replacing Michael Carrick as head coach, according to multiple reports on November 5, 2026. The approach comes as Carrick's position remains uncertain despite a midweek 3–2 Champions League comeback victory against AS Roma, which followed a nine-game winless streak that had left his job in serious jeopardy. United's decision-makers at INEOS have been preparing contingency plans, sounding out several potential candidates including Julian Nagelsmann and Unai Emery, who is in advanced negotiations to extend his contract with Aston Villa.

Deschamps, 58, has been out of work since stepping down as France national team manager following the 2026 World Cup. He spent 14 years in charge of Les Bleus, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Nations League, before his contract was not renewed after France's semi-final elimination at this year's tournament. His last club-level position was with Marseille, which he left in 2012, meaning he has been away from club football for over a decade. He has previously served as manager of Monaco (2001–2005) and Juventus (2006–2007), and spent one season as a player in the Premier League with Chelsea (1999–2000).

However, according to reporting from Foot Mercato and subsequent coverage, Deschamps has shown little enthusiasm for the Old Trafford role. Sources indicate he is not particularly keen to join Manchester United, citing the club's current difficulties—including significant fan discontent and poorly executed transfers. Deschamps is described as listening to offers but not in a hurry to commit to his next role, preferring to take time to evaluate all available opportunities. He is reportedly open to waiting until the next transfer window in summer 2027 before returning to management. He had previously been considered as a potential candidate for the Real Madrid position before José Mourinho was appointed.

Carrick's immediate future will likely depend on Manchester United's performance in their upcoming match against Aston Villa this weekend. While the Roma victory provided a temporary reprieve and a "vote of confidence" from the board according to reports, his job remains contingent on results. If Manchester United reverts to their earlier poor form, the board could move to make a managerial change during the November international break.

Other clubs, including Juventus, have also been linked with Deschamps in recent weeks as they search for managerial solutions, though he remains non-committal about any role at this stage.