Manchester United confirms Carrick’s interim role

Michael Carrick has agreed to become Manchester United’s interim head coach, with former England assistant manager Steve Holland set to join him as his number two. 

Carrick will be supported by Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, and Travis Binnion as part of a reshaped coaching staff at Old Trafford.

The 44-year-old former United midfielder reached an agreement with the club on Monday night, with an official announcement expected once paperwork is completed. 

United dismissed Ruben Amorim on 5 January after 14 months in charge, with Darren Fletcher overseeing two matches as caretaker manager in the interim.

Carrick will take charge for Saturday’s Premier League derby against Manchester City and begins his second spell as United’s temporary boss, having previously led the team for three games following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking in 2021. 

Club executives were impressed by Carrick’s vision during face-to-face talks last week and view him as a more hands-on coach than other candidates considered.

Holland brings significant experience to the role, having worked under Gareth Southgate with England during their run to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and finals at Euro 2021 and Euro 2024. 

The 55-year-old has also enjoyed major success at Chelsea under several managers, although he was dismissed after a short spell in charge of Japanese side Yokohama F Marinos earlier this year.

Carrick is expected to move United away from Amorim’s 3-4-3 system and implement his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, mirroring a tactical shift he previously oversaw at Middlesbrough. 

The change is seen as closer to United’s traditional style and a key factor behind his appointment.

Elsewhere on the coaching staff, Woodgate reunites with Carrick after working together at Middlesbrough, while former United defender Evans returns to the club following two recent seasons as a player. 

Binnion remains in place as a highly regarded academy coach, and Fletcher will return to his role with the Under-18s as United look to stabilise the first team for the remainder of the season.