Intriguing update emerges on Xabi Alonso to United amid Carrick uncertainty

Manchester United’s managerial picture has taken a dramatic twist after it emerged that former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has opened talks with the club, even as interim coach Michael Carrick continues to press his case for the permanent role.

Carrick, appointed as Ruben Amorim’s stand-in last December, has overseen a renaissance at Old Trafford, collecting seven wins, two draws and only one defeat across ten matches. The upturn has propelled United to third in the Premier League, one point clear of Aston Villa and six behind leaders Manchester City ahead of Monday’s clash with Leeds United.

Players past and present have publicly endorsed Carrick, with recent backing from Bryan Mbeumo and Amad intensifying the chorus for stability. Yet senior club sources maintain that no decision will be rushed, insisting the next appointment will be made only after a thorough review of every candidate.

Into that vacuum steps Alonso, out of work since leaving the Bernabeu in January. Football Transfers reports that the 44-year-old Spaniard has already held discussions with United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and a trio of Portuguese giants. While Anfield is viewed as the most probable destination should Arne Slot depart, the door to either Manchester club remains open.

Alonso, who steered Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2024, is said to be eager to return to management this summer and has yet to settle on a preferred project. United’s long-term vision and squad potential are understood to have featured prominently in early exchanges.

With the season entering its decisive stretch, the board’s willingness to keep every option on the table ensures the managerial subplot at Old Trafford will remain as compelling as the race for Champions League qualification.