​Michael Carrick is running out of time to save his job at Manchester United, with the club poised to ramp up the search for a fourth permanent manager in three years since minority owners Ineos took over football operations. Carrick – who impressed during his interim spell in charge last season – has come under huge pressure following United’s worst start to a season in 40 years.That pressure has only intensified after a dismal 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night was followed by a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at home on Sunday, with fans streaming out of Old Trafford in their droves during the second half. While the problems United face run far deeper than the head coach – as highlighted by defender Lisandro Martinez after the defeat to Atletico Madrid earlier this month – Carrick’s appears to be on the brink following criticism of his tactics by the United captain Bruno Fernandes, who was then left on the bench against Bournemouth. While Carrick remained in charge for Sunday’s defeat to the Cherries, the club have already discussed potential replacements should he follow the departures of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim under the Ineos leadership.Carrick spoke for almost six minutes at the start of his pre-match press conference on Friday, imploring the importance of “sacrifice”, “humility” and “hard work” in an impassioned speech which highlighted the “values” of the club and “respecting” the responsibility of representing United. But who could United turn to as they seek to salvage their campaign? Eddie Howe The Englishman is available after his shock decision to leave Newcastle United in the summer. Howe told the club he needed a break from management but the chance to take charge at Old Trafford, three months later, would surely be too good to turn down if an offer arrives. The 48-year-old remains highly regarded in English football after taking over a Newcastle side in the relegation zone and leading them to the club’s highest Premier League finish in two decades, as well as their first domestic silverware in 70 years. Howe twice took Newcastle into the Champions League playing an energetic, high-intensity style of football that would be popular at Old Trafford. He is currently the favourite with the bookies. Howe led Newcastle to the Carabao Cup in 2025 before leaving at the end of the following season (Getty)Fabian Hurzeler Brighton have been the surprise package in the Premier League this season and the 33-year-old Hurzeler has drawn praise for turning the Seagulls into a side capable of competing with the country’s biggest clubs. Brighton’s 3-0 victory over champions Arsenal earlier this season was a masterclass in modern coaching while Hurzeler’s side also knocked United out of the Carabao Cup with a brilliant 3-2 win at Old Trafford. The Independent’s Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney has reported that Hurzeler is admired at Old Trafford but Brighton would demand