Michael Carrick is set to be appointed as Manchester United’s interim head coach until the end of the season, emerging as the club’s leading candidate following discussions with executives, including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. While a deal has yet to be finalized, an announcement is expected within the next 48 hours, with hopes for Carrick to take the reins ahead of Saturday’s crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Darren Fletcher, who has served as caretaker following the departure of Ruben Amorim, may assist Carrick in his role. Additionally, there is speculation that another coach could join the staff to support Carrick during his interim tenure. Wayne Rooney, the former United striker, has expressed his willingness to join Carrick’s coaching team if requested, emphasizing the importance of having individuals who understand the club’s ethos and can restore its identity.
The appointment process has been spearheaded by Director of Football Jason Wilcox and Chief Executive Omar Berrada, requiring final approval from Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family. Once Carrick’s interim role is confirmed, the focus will shift to identifying a permanent successor for Amorim.
Carrick, 44, previously held a brief three-game stint as United’s head coach after Solskjaer’s departure in 2021. His long-standing relationship with the club as a player, where he enjoyed a successful 12-year career that included five Premier League titles and a Champions League victory, positions him well for this role. He has been out of management since being let go by Middlesbrough last summer.
Amorim’s dismissal came after a disappointing performance and a breakdown in relations within the club’s leadership. He had been at United for just over a year after joining from Sporting CP but parted ways after a tumultuous spell that saw his vision for the club clash with expectations. Manchester United is now poised for a new chapter, with Carrick’s appointment seen as a potential catalyst for revitalizing the team’s competitive spirit and connection to its heritage.