Former Premier League midfielder Andy Townsend has suggested that Manchester United should target Diego Simeone as their next permanent manager this summer if they want to close the gap on rivals like Arsenal and Manchester City.

United appointed Michael Carrick as interim manager on January 13, 2026, following the departure of Ruben Amorim. Carrick has made an impressive start, recording four wins and one draw in his first five matches, including notable victories against Arsenal and Manchester City. His current contract, however, runs only until the end of the season, leaving uncertainty over the club’s long-term managerial direction.

Townsend believes that while Carrick has performed admirably, United should still consider a more experienced coach capable of handling the pressures associated with managing a global club. Speaking via Metro, he argued that Simeone’s intensity and leadership qualities could help transform the team.

“I think there’s probably someone else who is better than Michael Carrick, even though he has done a great job… Among all the managers, the one I’d most like to see at United is Diego Simeone,” Townsend said.

He also acknowledged that Simeone’s pragmatic, defense-oriented style might not immediately appeal to fans who prefer attacking football, but insisted United’s priority should be competitiveness and results rather than aesthetics.

Simeone has been in charge of Atlético Madrid since 2011, winning eight major trophies, including two La Liga titles, and establishing himself as one of Europe’s most respected managers.

Opinion: Results or Identity — What Do Manchester United Really Need?

Townsend’s comments highlight a long-standing debate at Manchester United: should the club prioritise attractive football or a winning mentality? Simeone would undoubtedly bring discipline, defensive organisation, and relentless intensity — qualities United have lacked in recent seasons.

However, Carrick’s promising start complicates the decision. Football history shows that sometimes internal solutions succeed when given trust and time. If Carrick continues delivering results against top opposition, the club hierarchy may face pressure from fans to keep him permanently.

There is also the cultural question. Simeone’s football is built on resilience, structure, and emotional intensity, while United’s historical identity is associated with attacking flair and youth development. The challenge would be blending both philosophies without losing the club’s soul.

Ultimately, Manchester United’s next managerial appointment could define the club’s direction for years. Whether they choose experience like Simeone or continuity with Carrick, the real goal remains the same — returning to the elite level where they consistently compete with the very best.