Manchester United considering Carrick for permanent role

Manchester United are set to move closer to appointing club legend Michael Carrick as their permanent manager after senior executives reportedly decided he is the ideal candidate for the role. 

Carrick has impressed during his spell as caretaker boss following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim in January.

According to reports, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are expected to recommend Carrick’s appointment to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe later this week. 

Should Ratcliffe approve the decision, formal talks will begin before the club officially confirms the 44-year-old as United’s new permanent head coach.

Carrick has transformed United’s season since taking charge on January 13, guiding the club from seventh place to third in the Premier League standings. 

Under his leadership, United have collected 33 league points, more than any other side in the division during that period, while also sealing qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

The former midfielder has won 10 of his 15 matches in charge and suffered only two defeats. 

His tenure began with four consecutive victories, including major wins over title challengers Manchester City and Arsenal. 

Important victories later in the campaign against Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Liverpool further strengthened his case for the permanent role.

United were struggling before Amorim’s departure, with poor performances and disagreements over tactics reportedly causing tension behind the scenes. 

Carrick, who also briefly managed the club after Ole Gunnar Solskjær left in 2021, has earned praise internally for restoring stability and strengthening the atmosphere around the squad. 

Club officials have also been impressed by his focus on youth development and long-term planning.

While United considered several alternative candidates, options such as Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique were unavailable due to existing commitments. 

Carrick will now look to finish the season strongly, with matches against Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion remaining before a final decision on his future is officially announced.