Three problems Manchester United face when trying to appoint a new head coach

Manchester United fans are waiting for a resolution over the new head coach.

After Manchester United’s defeat to Bournemouth, Michael Carrick could offer no assurances over his job. The defeat continued United’s poor form, with the team stuck down in 16th in the Premier League table after eight games.

It is the club’s worst ever start to the season in the Premier League, with only seven points from eight games.

United are now in full meltdown mode, with Michael Carrick expected to be replaced. Yet he has survived the first 24 hours after the Bournemouth defeat, and could take training tomorrow.

So is this just hesitation? Or is it because Manchester United are facing issues hiring a replacement for Carrick?

Here is a look at three reasons for the problems…

Instant replacement required, no interim

Manchester United cannot sack Michael Carrick and announce Darren Fletcher as caretaker manager this weekend. They just can’t. Fletcher failed to get results in his two matches last time, and this would be another backwards step. You might as well just keep Carrick in charge.

But this means United must prepare a double announcement. Carrick out, and his replacement in.

There are clearly logistical challenges here that mean this can take more than 24 hours.

A new manager will require his own contract, salary, and his staff. That’s a lot of paperwork and financial agreement to rush through.

If United are chasing a manager who is already in a job, then it becomes even more complicated.

No elite budget for elite managers

Manchester United cannot go out and hire an elite manager. Antonio Conte actually wants the job – but does he really?

United do not have an elite transfer budget. This was proven in the recent transfer window. United’s net spend was more in-keeping with a mid-table Premier League club than a top team.

An elite manager will expect an elite budget. And if United cannot supply one, then they are forced to look around for a mid-level manager to match the mid-level budget.

This may align expectations and prevent manager-board friction – but fans will be less impressed with a modest show of ambition.

Board and current staff unattractive

The way Manchester United has been run under Ineos, and beforehand, makes the club a deeply unattractive proposition.

The performances and poor behaviour of the players further sullies the reputation of the club. Who would want to come and take over right now?

While there will always be candidates for a club the size of United, there will also be very good managers ruling themselves out. And these are likely to be the shrewd, savvy coaches who are actually more capable of turning the situation around.