McKenna open to talks with Manchester United as Carrick faces pressure

Kieran McKenna is preparing to return to management and is open to discussions with Manchester United and Tottenham, according to reports published on September 22, 2026, as pressure builds on United manager Michael Carrick after a difficult start to the season. McKenna, 40, has been out of work since stepping down as Ipswich Town manager on June 10, 2026, citing family commitments. His name has been linked with Old Trafford since he was spotted in the directors box during United's 3-2 Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton on September 17, an appearance reported by BBC journalist Simon Stone. That appearance does not indicate any contact with United, and no club has confirmed an approach. Carrick remains in charge. United have collected five points from their first five Premier League matches, with one win so far, and Reuters reported that the club ranks bottom of the league for several high-intensity running and sprinting metrics following Sunday's 1-1 draw at Fulham. United return to league action against Tottenham on October 10 after the international break. A move would carry a significant price.