However, United’s fortunes have changed dramatically this campaign. A disappointing defeat against newly promoted Hull City was followed by several poor results, leaving the Red Devils struggling in 16th position in the league standings.
Defeats against Atletico Madrid and Como in the Champions League further increased pressure on Carrick, while captain Bruno Fernandes also publicly criticised aspects of the team’s performances.
United’s 3-0 defeat against Bournemouth extended their winless run to eight matches across all competitions, raising fresh questions about the manager’s future at Old Trafford.
Despite the growing uncertainty, Carrick is reportedly expected to remain in charge for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea as the club assesses his ability to turn the situation around.
Several managers, including Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann and Fabian Hurzeler, have been linked with the position. However, Obi Mikel believes Emery would represent a stronger option for the struggling English giants.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, the former Nigeria international questioned Carrick’s experience while acknowledging his achievements last season.
“Is Michael Carrick a top manager? No. Did he manage at the top level before getting the United job? No,” Obi Mikel said, while admitting the appointment was always going to involve a learning process.
He also criticised United’s players, arguing that their collective performances have fallen below the standards expected at such a prestigious club.
When asked whether Howe or Nagelsmann should replace Carrick, Obi Mikel rejected both options and backed Emery instead, describing the Spaniard as an outstanding tactical coach.
“I would go for Unai Emery,” he declared, although he admitted convincing the Aston Villa manager to leave his current position would be difficult.
Obi Mikel believes United should provide Emery with sufficient financial backing and authority to rebuild the squad, arguing that the club needs a fresh direction after repeated disappointments.
Although Emery struggled during his previous spell at Arsenal, Obi Mikel believes the experience helped him develop. His subsequent work at Villarreal and Aston Villa has demonstrated his managerial qualities and ability to build competitive teams.
The former Chelsea midfielder particularly praised Emery for maintaining Villa’s competitiveness despite losing several important players during the summer transfer window.
He highlighted the manager’s ability to recruit effectively, integrate new signings and maintain a clear tactical identity despite significant changes to the squad.
Villa’s impressive 2-1 victory over Manchester City further strengthened Obi Mikel’s admiration, with the result demonstrating the team’s confidence and tactical organisation against elite opposition.
“When I watch this Villa side play, the intensity they showed against Manchester City was impressive,” he explained, praising Emery’s tactical decisions and ability to prepare his players for difficult matches.
Obi Mikel believes Emery possesses the experience, tactical intelligence and leadership necessary to help Manchester United recover. However, whether the Aston Villa manager would consider leaving remains uncertain.