Gary Neville has said that Michael Carrick will need 'a couple more transfer windows' to get the Manchester United squad back to competing for silverware and the Premier League title. The former United defender made the comments after Carrick's impressive start as interim head coach.
Carrick, 44, took over from Ruben Amorim in mid-January and has won nine of his 13 matches in charge, drawing two and collecting 29 points from a possible 39. That run has lifted United to third in the Premier League table, 11 points above Brighton with four games remaining, and on the verge of Champions League qualification.
Speaking after United's 2-1 win against Brentford, Neville told Sky Sports: 'He [Carrick] said before the game that he is influencing decision-making for next season. He thinks about the long-term future of the club. I think he'll recognise this needs a couple more transfer windows to get the squad where he wants it.'
Neville highlighted areas for improvement, saying: 'Casemiro is not going to be here one more year, there will need to be a new midfield built and the back line is still not right. There is some work to do.' He added that Carrick should be happy with his current work with the group.
Carrick is the leading contender for the permanent head coach role ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with Andoni Iraola, Julian Nagelsmann and Oliver Glasner also linked. United's strong form under Carrick has made him the prime candidate as the club prepares for a Champions League return.
