Brief

Antonio Conte says he is open to a Manchester United job amid Carrick crisis

Conte, out of work since leaving Napoli, clarified his position on rumours linking him to Manchester United.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 26 Oct 2026 23:02:23 GMT

Manchester United executives are holding crisis talks after a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford left the club winless in eight matches, and former Italy manager Antonio Conte said he is open to returning to work but has not entered advanced negotiations with any club.

What happened

The loss on Sunday intensified scrutiny of manager Michael Carrick, with United officials Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada meeting at the training ground on Monday. Reports said a statement on Carrick’s future was expected imminently.

What the reports add

Standard.co.uk noted that Conte, who left Napoli at the end of the previous season, has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Carrick. The outlet also highlighted Conte’s 2017 Premier League title with Chelsea as part of his “proven track record”.

What was said

Conte told the outlet, "If you go to a club where the history speaks for itself… you can only honour that history in one way: by having the ambition to bring that club back…" He added, "I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made… These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments." The statement, posted on his Instagram story, also said, "My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage."

How it came about

United’s recent poor form follows a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on 21 October, which sparked fan calls for Carrick’s dismissal (Felo coverage). Earlier in the season, former United striker Wayne Rooney warned that a lack of aggression in midfield was hurting the team (Felo coverage). The current crisis adds to a series of tactical criticisms, including Gary Carragher’s rebuke of Carrick’s substitution choices in September (Felo coverage).

Key facts

Manchester United lost 2-0 to Bournemouth, extending a winless run of eight games. (standard.co.uk)
Antonio Conte said he is open to returning to management but has no advanced negotiations. (standard.co.uk)
Conte denied reports of salary demands and full‑control requests. (standard.co.uk)