Manchester United are poised to appoint former midfielder Michael Carrick as their interim manager, with the club accelerating talks to finalise terms. This choice currently places him ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the race for the vacancy following the departure of Ruben Amorim. United’s decision is expected soon, with an announcement likely before their Premier League clash with Manchester City.
Carrick, 44, has emerged as the leading candidate after a series of discussions with club leadership, including director of football Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada, and has drawn significant backing from within the squad and coaching circles.
Why Carrick Has Climbed the Interim Manager List
After United’s poor run of form and subsequent FA Cup exit, the club moved to replace Darren Fletcher — who had served as temporary boss — with a full interim manager capable of stabilising the team for the rest of the season. Carrick’s name has risen sharply due to:
- Strong impressions in meetings with United’s hierarchy, where his tactical plans and vision reportedly resonated strongly.
- Growing support from within the playing squad, with sources indicating players respect his leadership and understand his Manchester United history.
- A previous caretaker spell at United in 2021 following Solskjaer’s departure, where he oversaw positive results before Ralf Rangnick’s appointment.
These factors have helped Carrick overtake Solskjaer — who also interviewed for the role and remains in the picture — as the favourite to take charge.
What This Means for Solskjaer
Although Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been under consideration for the interim role (having enjoyed a spell as United manager from 2018 to 2021), recent developments suggest the balance may have shifted in Carrick’s favour.
Solskjaer’s past tenure was marked by notable achievements — including back-to-back top-four finishes and a Europa League final — but the club now appears drawn to a candidate more closely aligned with the current tactical direction and internal culture.
However, it’s important to note that Solskjaer has not been ruled out entirely and could still feature in a coaching setup or take the job if talks with Carrick fall through — something the club is weighing carefully.
Timetable and Derby Implications
Manchester United aim to have their new interim manager in place swiftly to give the incumbent coach time to prepare the squad for upcoming key fixtures, including the Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
An announcement is expected within 48 hours, meaning Carrick’s appointment could be confirmed ahead of midweek training sessions.
Carrick’s Coaching Profile
Michael Carrick enjoyed a long and successful playing career, most notably with Manchester United, where he was a key figure in midfield across 12 years at Old Trafford. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and managed Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship before being linked to the United vacancy.
His tactical understanding, calm demeanour, and experience both as a player and a coach make him an attractive option to steady a United side struggling for consistency this season.
What This Means for Man United’s Season
If confirmed, Carrick will take charge with United focused on Premier League recovery, aiming to secure a strong league position as their main objective after early exits from domestic cup competitions.
The immediate challenge will be to rally the squad’s confidence and prepare for high-pressure matches, including the derby and subsequent league fixtures that will shape their campaign’s narrative.
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