It Begins: Italy Already Has a Favorite to Replace Carrick

Italian manager Antonio Conte is now being touted as the frontrunner to succeed Michael Carrick as Manchester United's manager, should Carrick be dismissed, according to reports from Italy. The former Italy national team coach is currently a free agent after parting ways with Napoli this summer. He meets most of the criteria that have been mentioned in recent years since INEOS took the reins at Old Trafford. Conte has Premier League experience, having won the title with Chelsea and also managed Tottenham. He has achieved success with almost every team he's led and is considered one of the elite coaches of the last decade.

Meanwhile, the BBC reports that the Red Devils' hierarchy has not yet lost faith in Michael Carrick, despite a string of disappointing results. Manchester United has recorded three losses in six matches since the start of the campaign. Particularly disheartening were the last two defeats: a home loss to Manchester City in the derby over the weekend, despite having a numerical advantage, and yesterday's shocking defeat to Brighton, where the 20-time champions held a two-goal lead by the 10th minute. Carrick's side is set to visit Fulham this weekend, and another loss at Craven Cottage would further exacerbate the situation before the international break.