Manchester United sound out Julian Nagelsmann as managerial shortlist takes shape

Reports in British media suggest United have started exploring options for a permanent head coach beyond Michael Carrick’s interim spell, with Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann emerging as a name under discussion — though any move would be complicated by his long-term DFB contract.

Manchester United’s search for a permanent manager has gathered pace, with Julian Nagelsmann increasingly linked to the Old Trafford job as the club plans beyond interim coach Michael Carrick. Reuters recently reported Carrick urging the club to avoid “knee-jerk” decisions while United continue their process of appointing a full-time boss.

While there has been no official confirmation of direct talks from United or the German Football Association, the speculation has intensified because Nagelsmann remains one of the most highly rated coaches available in Europe, and he fits the modern, high-intensity profile many expect United to target. Sky Sports has also included Nagelsmann among the prominent candidates being debated in the UK media landscape around United’s next appointment.

Any serious approach, however, runs into a major practical barrier: Nagelsmann extended his contract as Germany head coach through Euro 2028, a deal officially confirmed by the DFB. That extension positions him to lead Germany not only at the 2026 World Cup, but also into the next European Championship cycle.

For United, the key question is timing. If the club wants a clean reset in the summer, it may prefer a coach who can fully commit from day one. If Nagelsmann is genuinely on the list, the club would likely need clarity on whether he is willing — and able — to leave the national team before 2028. Until that’s resolved, the Nagelsmann link looks like a high-profile option on the shortlist rather than a straightforward deal nearing completion.