Manchester United legend Roy Keane has publicly endorsed Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe as his preferred candidate to take the permanent managerial reins at Old Trafford.
Keane's Candid Managerial Assessment
The outspoken pundit made his surprising revelation during an appearance on Sky Sports, following the sacking of Ruben Amorim on Monday. Amorim's dismissal came swiftly after he launched a scathing public attack on the club's hierarchy following United's 1-1 draw with Leeds last weekend.
Currently, Darren Fletcher is acting as caretaker manager, having overseen a 2-2 draw against Burnley on Wednesday. The club is actively seeking an interim head coach to guide the team until the season's conclusion, with former managers Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick, alongside Ruud van Nistelrooy, all under consideration.
Why Howe Gets Keane's Vote
When pressed by presenter David Jones to name his ideal appointment, Keane paused briefly before delivering his verdict. "I'd go Eddie Howe," he stated unequivocally. "I like him. I like what he's done, his management. He's managed a lot of games, when his teams are at it, they play good football."
Keane, known for his fiery temperament, specifically praised the Newcastle manager's composed demeanour. "I love his calmness, I think sometimes Man United need a bit of that," he explained, drawing a contrast with the more volatile Amorim.
He highlighted Howe's extensive experience, noting he has managed between 700 and 800 games despite being relatively young. Keane also pointed to the 46-year-old's tangible successes: "What he's done at Newcastle, Champions League a couple of times, winning the (League) Cup."
Contrast with Other Candidates
Earlier in the discussion, Keane was asked about the potential return of his former teammate, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had a successful stint as caretaker in the 2018-19 season. His response was measured.
"You could throw 20 names at me and I'd still say the same thing. Whoever goes in, you wish them well," Keane said. "If it's until the end of the season, I think Ole would do alright. Do I see Ole as the manager for the next four or five seasons, getting United back competing, then probably not."
Howe's Credentials Strengthened by Newcastle Form
Keane's endorsement comes at a time when Howe's stock is particularly high. Just on Thursday night, his Newcastle side delivered a sensational 4-3 victory over Leeds United, a win sealed by a last-gasp Harvey Barnes strike in the 102nd minute.
That result propelled Newcastle above Manchester United into fifth place in the Premier League table, compounding a difficult period for the Red Devils who have drawn their last three matches.
During his five-year tenure at St James' Park, Howe has transformed Newcastle into consistent top-four challengers and secured two Champions League qualifications. He cemented his legendary status at the club in 2025 by ending a 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy, lifting the League Cup after a 2-1 final victory over Liverpool.
While Keane acknowledged that Howe "is not for everyone" and will have critics, his personal recommendation is clear. "I'd be happy to see him go in there," concluded the Irishman, setting the agenda for the looming managerial debate at Old Trafford.
