Manchester United have officially named Michael Carrick as their interim manager until the end of the 2025-26 season. The club has tasked the former midfielder with guiding the Red Devils back into the Champions League.
Carrick, 44, described the role as an honor, saying, “Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour. My focus is now on helping the players reach the standards we expect at this incredible club.”
Carrick’s Past Experience at United
Carrick is no stranger to Old Trafford. He enjoyed a 12-year playing career at Manchester United, winning 12 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League. After retiring in 2018, he joined the club’s coaching staff, assisting managers like Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
He also had a brief caretaker stint in 2021, during which he remained unbeaten over three games. His familiarity with the club’s culture and players played a major role in the decision to appoint him as interim boss.
First Task: The Manchester Derby
Carrick’s first major challenge comes quickly, as Manchester United prepare to face local rivals Manchester City in the Premier League this Sunday.
Currently, United sit seventh in the table, three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool and just one point behind fifth-placed Brentford. Securing a top-four finish is crucial, as it guarantees qualification for the Champions League, while fifth place might still suffice thanks to England’s strong performance in European competitions.
A Club in Transition
The Red Devils recently parted ways with Ruben Amorim, who spent 14 months at the club, following disappointing results. Caretaker manager Darren Fletcher oversaw a 2-2 draw with Burnley and a 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton, leaving fans eager for a turnaround.
Carrick inherits a squad with a lighter schedule than usual. With early exits from both domestic cups and no European competition this season, Manchester United will play just 40 matches — their fewest since the 1914-15 season.
Why Carrick is Considered the Safe Choice
Carrick’s long association with the club as a player and coach convinced United’s hierarchy that he is the “safe pair of hands” they need for the coming months.
Jason Wilcox, the club’s director of football, said, “Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United. He is ready to lead our talented and determined group of players for the remainder of the season as we continue to build the club towards regular and sustained success.”
Lessons from Middlesbrough
After leaving United temporarily, Carrick took on his first permanent managerial role at Middlesbrough in October 2022. While he led Boro to the play-offs in his first season, the club finished eighth and 10th in his two full campaigns. He was sacked in June 2025 after failing to secure promotion to the Premier League.
Despite this, Carrick’s experience at United and understanding of top-flight football make him a trusted choice to steady the club during a challenging season.
Looking Ahead
Fans will be watching closely as Carrick begins his interim tenure, hoping that the former midfielder can guide Manchester United back to the Champions League and restore stability at Old Trafford.
With a mix of experience, knowledge of the club, and a strong focus on team cohesion, Carrick has the chance to make a significant impact in what is arguably one of the most crucial periods of United’s season.
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