Didier Deschamps has reportedly informed Manchester United that he is not interested in taking over as manager, according to the Daily Mirror. The news comes as a blow to the club's search for a successor to Michael Carrick, whose position has been under scrutiny due to a poor start to the season.
Carrick remains in his post, but Manchester United has been exploring potential candidates for weeks. The club has faced an abysmal start to the current Premier League campaign, leaving them in 17th place. Deschamps, who recently departed his role as France manager after 14 years, was seen as an attractive option due to his immediate availability and the absence of a compensation fee.
Other names that have reportedly appeared on Manchester United's shortlist include Eddie Howe, Fabian Hurzeler, Unai Emery, and Antonio Conte. The upcoming international break was considered an opportune time for potential managerial changes across the league.
Deschamps, who boasts a decorated coaching career including a World Cup victory with France, Ligue 1 title with Marseille, a Champions League final appearance with Monaco, and promotion with Juventus, is reportedly in no rush to take on a new role and has declined the advance from Manchester United.
Carrick's prospects received a boost following a dramatic comeback win against Roma in the Champions League, with Matheus Cunha scoring two late goals. However, he faces a crucial match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford before the international break to solidify his position.
The team has experienced a significant downturn in recent weeks, narrowly avoiding a ten-game winless streak, a historically unprecedented run for the club. Heavy defeats against Como and Bournemouth have contributed to player dissatisfaction, with Bruno Fernandes publicly criticizing Carrick's tactics following the loss to Como. Lisandro Martinez has also reportedly expressed concerns about the squad's quality and transfer activity to director of football Jason Wilcox.
If Carrick were to depart, the club would need to turn to other candidates. Unai Emery is reportedly considering a new deal with Aston Villa, potentially keeping him at the club for nearly a decade. Fabian Hurzeler, currently at Brighton, does not have a release clause, which would necessitate substantial compensation. Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte are both unattached, with Conte having previously expressed interest in revitalizing a major club.
