Eddie Howe is a genuine contender for the Manchester United job, and the case for him is stronger than many fans think. The 48-year-old has been out of work since leaving Newcastle United in the summer — and United are already weighing up his merits if Michael Carrick fails to stop the rot.
Eddie Howe (Credits: BBC Sport)
Those who have worked alongside Howe describe a coach whose relentless training-ground approach produces measurable player improvement, and one who places unwavering importance on the methodology of building a winning culture. His résumé backs it up: appointed Bournemouth boss with the club facing relegation from League Two in January 2009, he took the Cherries to the Premier League in 2015 and established them as a top-flight club.
Eddie Howe Man Utd Record: Newcastle Triumphs
In 2021 Howe took over a Newcastle side in relegation trouble. He led them to Champions League qualification on two occasions and delivered the EFL Cup in 2025 — the club’s first trophy in 56 years. It is the kind of transformational arc United supporters can only dream of right now.
The scepticism is real, though. Sections of the fanbase say Howe is not a big enough name, and former players Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt stopped short of backing him. But ex-captain Roy Keane has supported Howe as a possible successor, with Darren Bent, Gareth Barry and Jack Wilshere also touting him.
The Challenges at Old Trafford
Managing United is a different beast entirely. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s British-core project has struggled — Carrick’s appointment has faltered this season and the club’s recruitment, led by Omar Berrada, Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell, faces enormous scrutiny. Saturday’s match against Chelsea could decide Carrick’s fate, and finances will inevitably shape any move for Howe.
Also Read: Gary Neville: Michael Carrick Sometimes Needs Sacking “for His Own Good” After 3-0 Bournemouth Defeat | “Fully Committed” Bruno Fernandes to Remain Man Utd Captain Ahead of Chelsea Trip, Confirms Carrick
Source: BBC Sport — read the full story there.
