Michael Carrick is on the verge of being appointed as the permanent manager of Manchester United after reaching a broad agreement with the club on a two-year contract. The 44-year-old, who has been in interim charge since January, has emerged as the top choice to replace Ruben Amorim on a permanent basis.
Contract Details
United have offered Carrick a deal until 2028, with the option of an additional season. Talks are ongoing with Carrick and his backroom staff, but his appointment could be announced as early as Sunday, when United face Nottingham Forest.
Carrick's Statement
Carrick, who previously stated that it felt "natural" for him to be United manager, confirmed that his future was "pretty close" to being settled. Speaking on Friday, he said: "I can't blame you for asking [about my future]. There's two games to go, apart from that there's not much else to say, probably what you expect. The situation is pretty clear for us all."
Impressive Interim Spell
Initially not seen as the favourite for the permanent role, Carrick has transformed United's fortunes. Since his return to Old Trafford, United have taken 33 points from 15 Premier League games—the most in the division—and secured Champions League qualification. His performances have earned him a spot on the shortlist for the Premier League's manager-of-the-year award.
Backing from Key Figures
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given his approval, while chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox have been impressed by Carrick's work during his four-month interim tenure.
Carrick expressed his pride in returning to the club: "It's a unique football club, a special club. I'm immensely proud to have come back and been a part of it, to help as a supporter and ex-player, as a pure supporter caring about the club so much to be in a position to come back and help and move forward was important. To make a big step, and back in the Champions League is good, we're happy with the work we've done so far."
