Manchester United near decision on Michael Carrick's future ahead of Liverpool match

Manchester United are said to be close to ending Michael Carrick's tenure as manager, with the club positioned in the Premier League relegation zone after a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa. The board has not confirmed a final decision, but sources told The Athletic that a shortlist of candidates is being prepared, and a change could occur before the match against Liverpool in 13 days. Potential successors mentioned include United States national team coach Mauricio Pochettino, former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. Any appointment would require approval from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.

Carring, who was given a permanent two-year contract in May after a successful caretaker spell that saw United finish third, has struggled this season, winning only one of the first ten league games and being eliminated from the EFL Cup by Brighton. The team recorded a single victory in three matches following a 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, a win that came in the Champions League against Roma.