Manchester United crossroads: Michael Carrick faces Aston Villa test to save job

Manchester United has reportedly reached out to former France manager Didier Deschamps as discussions about Michael Carrick's future at the club continue to linger, according to the Sun UK. The Champions League comeback win over Roma provided Carrick with some respite, but the club is keeping an eye out for potential replacements if a change is deemed necessary.

Deschamps, currently 58 years old, has a rich managerial background, having led France to World Cup victory in 2018 and guiding clubs such as Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille to success. He commanded Juventus to promote from Serie B after their match-fixing scandal, secured Ligue 1 with Marseille, and led Monaco to the Champions League final, which they lost to Porto.

Deschamps briefly played for Chelsea in the 1999-2000 season before his international career. He expressed interest in the Real Madrid position after leaving France but lost out to Jose Mourinho. French sources indicate that Deschamps is open to returning to management and has not expressed any urgency in making a decision. Manchester United had previously considered parting ways with Carrick, but have not found a suitable candidate to step in immediately.

Decision-makers at the club are reportedly unconvinced by the available managerial options, including Antonio Conte, Eddie Howe, and Julian Nagelsmann. United have not made a formal bid for Conte, while Howe has conducted due diligence before potentially making an offer. Christopher Vivell, United's director of recruitment, had previously worked with Nagelsmann at the Red Bull group and has been instrumental in including the German coach in the shortlist.

Brighton manager Fabian Hürlzer has been ruled out due to the high compensation fee required, as has Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery.