Michael Carrick has been appointed Manchester United's permanent head coach on a contract until 2028, the club confirmed. The 44-year-old, who took over as interim manager in January, has guided the team back into the Champions League and secured a guaranteed third-place finish in the Premier League.
Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim when United were sixth and out of both cup competitions. He restored morale and led the team to 11 wins and three draws in 16 games, including victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool. Under his leadership, Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record and won the Football Writers' Player of the Year award.
Carrick, who played for United for 12 years until 2018, said: 'From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. Now it's time to move forward together again, with ambition and a clear sense of purpose.'
Director of football Jason Wilcox recommended Carrick's appointment, which was approved by owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family. Wilcox praised Carrick's alignment with the club's values and his success in forging a strong bond with players.
Carrick's interim tenure began with consecutive wins over the top two, Manchester City and Arsenal. He also restored Kobbie Mainoo to the team after the midfielder had been ostracised by Amorim, with Mainoo saying he wanted 'to die for him on the pitch'.
The appointment comes nearly a year after Carrick was sacked by Middlesbrough. United will strengthen the squad for a congested schedule next season, with a replacement for Casemiro a priority.
