Manchester United have suffered a blow in pursuit of Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler amidst uncertainty around Michael Carrick’s future.

Fabian Hurzeler is unwilling to leave Brighton & Hove Albion amid Manchester United’s interest, with the 33-year-old committed to the club’s project following a summer contract extension.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Manchester United have identified Hurzeler as a possible candidate should they decide to part ways with Michael Carrick. However, Football Insider reports that he has no plans to leave his project at Brighton any time soon and is prepared to snub interest from the Red Devils.

His new deal includes a significant pay hike but does not contain a release clause, so any move to ManchesterUnited would require negotiation between the clubs. That could complicate matters, particularly given the Seagulls’ determination to continue progressing under their young head coach.

Hurzeler’s reputation has grown considerably following Brighton’s impressive start to the campaign. His side sit third in the Premier League table and head into the weekend as the division’s top scorers, having registered 23 goals despite drawing a blank against Jablonec in Europe.

His sharp tactical setup has made Brighton one of the division’s most dangerous attacking sides, qualities that appeal to a United team struggling for consistency under Carrick. A commanding 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace has amplified attention on Hurzeler, with United assessing managerial alternatives amid pressure on Carrick.

Hurzeler not leaving Brighton

At a recent press conference, Hurzeler said via , “I am really focused on my job here. I have no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days. Beside that, I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick, for what he has done with Manchester United at the end of last season.

“He is a great human being, he is a great personality. Every time we meet each other, we have a really good relationship, so therefore I really respect him and there is nothing more to say about that.”

The Brighton manager also stressed that he believes there is considerable room for improvement within his squad, suggesting he has little desire to abandon the work already underway.

“I am really privileged to be in this situation here, and I always mention that I am part of a journey,” he said.

“I always emphasise as well that I still have this feeling when I go to bed that we are not finished with our journey, and I am not 100 per cent satisfied and happy with where we are.”

Hurzeler is focused on developing his players alongside his coaching staff, highlighting the relationships built during his time at the club.

For Manchester United, his commitment represents a significant obstacle. While his age and tactical approach make him an appealing option, Brighton’s contractual position and the manager’s own comments suggest that securing his appointment would be far from straightforward.