Manchester United’s search for their next permanent manager has taken another dramatic turn, as fresh reports reveal that INEOS have identified a new leading candidate and are believed to have already agreed personal terms with an experienced coach who recently stepped down from his previous role.
The plan, according to sources, is for him to take charge in the summer and succeed interim boss Michael Carrick.
However, United’s long-standing admiration for Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique appears to have suffered a setback.
Reports emerging from France indicate that PSG are determined to secure the Spaniard’s long-term future amid growing interest from Old Trafford.
Enrique, who is currently contracted to the French champions until 2027, has been strongly linked with the Manchester United job in recent months.
Speculation intensified following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal in January, with several outlets claiming Enrique was viewed internally as the club’s primary target to lead the next era.
The former Barcelona and Spain head coach has enjoyed tremendous success in Paris. Last season, he guided PSG to their first-ever Champions League triumph, completing a historic Treble during the 2024/25 campaign.
Although they currently trail RC Lens in the Ligue 1 standings, PSG remain one of the favorites to compete for major honors both domestically and in Europe.
Given his pedigree and track record of winning at the highest level, it is no surprise that United’s hierarchy reportedly see Enrique as an ideal candidate.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS leadership are understood to be prioritizing the appointment of an established winner — someone capable of restoring sustained success at Old Trafford.
Yet PSG are now moving decisively to fend off Premier League interest. According to L’Equipe, the French champions have shifted from a relaxed stance regarding Enrique’s contract situation to one of urgency.
The club are eager to eliminate uncertainty before the summer and are pushing for an extension that would keep him in Paris until 2030.
Reports also suggest Enrique himself has made remaining at PSG his top priority, which would represent a significant blow to United’s ambitions of luring him to England.
While Enrique may have been considered the glamorous option, Michael Carrick’s impressive interim spell has complicated the situation.
Since taking charge, Carrick has overseen a flawless start, winning his first four matches and lifting United into fourth place in the Premier League.
The team now sits just three points behind Aston Villa and Manchester City, firmly back in the Champions League conversation.
Notably, Carrick’s victories have not come against lesser opposition. He has guided United to wins over Manchester City, Fulham, and Tottenham at Old Trafford, while also handing Arsenal their only home defeat of the season at the Emirates.
After a turbulent period under Amorim, Carrick has simplified United’s tactical setup, focusing on core principles.
His approach emphasizes a traditional back four, consistent inclusion of Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, and intensive rondo drills in training to sharpen possession play.
The result has been a team performing with greater clarity — playing quick, structured, and purposeful football.
Individually, players have flourished under his system. Bruno Fernandes, restored to his preferred No.10 role, has rediscovered his best form and become central to United’s attacking rhythm.
As the summer approaches, Manchester United face a defining decision: pursue an elite external appointment like Enrique or reward Carrick’s steady revival with long-term trust. Either way, the managerial picture at Old Trafford is rapidly evolving.
