Jamie Carragher has questioned whether Diego Simeone would be the right fit for Manchester United, suggesting his appointment could recreate problems similar to those seen during Ruben Amorim’s spell at Old Trafford.
United are currently operating under interim head coach Michael Carrick, who enjoyed an impressive start with a 2–0 derby victory over Manchester City. Carrick is expected to remain in charge until the end of the season while the club searches for a permanent successor.
Simeone link raises tactical concerns
As speculation intensifies, a wide range of managerial names have been linked with the job, including Thomas Tuchel, Eddie Howe, Roberto De Zerbi, Luis Enrique, Xavi, Gareth Southgate and Oliver Glasner.
One of the more eye-catching suggestions has been Diego Simeone. However, speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, Carragher expressed doubts about whether the Atlético Madrid boss aligns with United’s traditional identity.
Carragher acknowledged that former United figures Roy Keane and Gary Neville have both spoken positively about Simeone in recent months, but argued that his defensive approach would represent a departure from what Manchester United historically stand for.
He explained that English clubs often chase managers purely based on success elsewhere, without fully considering stylistic fit. Carragher pointed out that it would be contradictory to appoint a manager like Simeone, known for his defensive structure, while expecting him to adapt to a more expansive, attack-minded philosophy traditionally associated with United.
Lessons from the Amorim situation
Carragher also referenced the Ruben Amorim episode, stressing that clubs cannot hire a manager for what made them successful and then demand they abandon that identity.
He suggested that expecting a coach to suddenly change core principles inevitably leads to friction, something United experienced previously when tactical expectations did not align with the manager’s natural approach.
Henry urges clarity of vision
Former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry echoed Carragher’s concerns, emphasising the importance of clarity before making such a crucial appointment.
Henry argued that clubs must first decide what they want to become stylistically, before identifying the manager who best fits that vision. He suggested too many clubs skip this internal discussion, leading to mismatched appointments and long-term instability.
Carragher names likely United target
Looking ahead, Carragher revealed who he believes United would ideally want to appoint.
He claimed that most clubs would love to land Luis Enrique, highlighting his Champions League pedigree and the style of football his teams have played in recent seasons. However, Carragher admitted such a move appears unlikely.
Instead, he suggested there is a strong chance United could eventually turn to Thomas Tuchel, should they be unable to secure their preferred options.
As United continue their managerial search, Carragher’s warning underlines the importance of alignment between philosophy, expectations and appointment — a lesson the club can ill afford to ignore again.
Key Insights
- Jamie Carragher believes Diego Simeone would clash with Manchester United’s DNA
- Defensive style seen as a potential repeat of past issues
- Thierry Henry urges United to define their footballing vision first
- Luis Enrique viewed as ideal but unlikely target
- Thomas Tuchel tipped as a realistic outcome
What’s Next
Manchester United will continue evaluating candidates while Michael Carrick leads the team through the remainder of the season, with Champions League qualification a key objective.
Should Manchester United prioritise philosophy over pedigree when choosing their next manager?
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