Michael Carrick is expected to be recommended as Manchester United’s next permanent manager after overseeing a significant turnaround in the club’s fortunes since taking charge earlier this year.
Reports on Wednesday suggested that senior club officials are ready to back the former midfielder for the top job following an impressive run of results that has transformed United’s season. Carrick, 44, stepped in as interim manager in January after Ruben Amorim’s difficult spell at Old Trafford came to an abrupt and controversial end.
When Carrick was appointed on January 13 for the remainder of the campaign, Manchester United were struggling in seventh place in the Premier League table and facing the possibility of another season outside the Champions League. However, under his leadership, the team has rediscovered consistency and confidence.
United secured qualification for next season’s Champions League with three matches still left to play, ending a two-year absence from Europe’s elite club competition. The Red Devils have also climbed to third place in the league standings, putting themselves back among the Premier League’s top-performing sides.
Carrick’s record since taking over has strengthened his position as the leading candidate for the role. In 15 matches across all competitions, he has guided United to 10 victories while suffering only two defeats. The improved performances and positive atmosphere around the squad have reportedly convinced several key figures within the club hierarchy that he deserves the position on a permanent basis.
According to widespread reports, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are expected to recommend Carrick’s appointment to co-owner Jim Ratcliffe during an executive meeting scheduled for this week. While Manchester United are believed to have explored alternative candidates during the process, Carrick has consistently remained the frontrunner.
The former England international has also received public backing from several players, many of whom have praised the calm approach and renewed belief he has brought to the dressing room since taking charge.
Speculation over his future has intensified further after some bookmakers reportedly suspended betting on Carrick becoming United’s permanent manager, a move often viewed as a sign that an announcement could be close.
Carrick is expected to address the media on Friday ahead of Manchester United’s final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, where questions regarding his future are likely to dominate the discussion.
