Manchester United are eager to begin talks with Michael Carrick about appointing him manager on a permanent basis, following his excellent results as interim boss.
Carrick Emerges as First Choice
The former United midfielder has emerged as the club’s first-choice to take charge on a long-term basis. United are expected to enter into discussions with Carrick next week, with the 44-year-old believed to be keen to take the job permanently.
While United have considered other candidates and not completely ruled out appointing someone else, Carrick is in pole position after guiding the team back to the Champions League.
Impressive Record
Carrick has taken 33 points from 15 games during his time in charge, the most in the Premier League, and has secured qualification for the Champions League with United on course for a third-place finish. He has also revived the career of Kobbie Mainoo, who signed a new long-term deal, while Harry Maguire also received a new contract.
Player Support
A series of United players have expressed their desire for Carrick to be appointed, including Amad Diallo, Matheus Cunha and Casemiro. Mainoo said they were willing “to die” for him. After the 3-2 victory over Liverpool last week, Carrick said it felt “natural” for him to be United manager and that he loved his job, in his strongest hint he wanted to stay.
Return to Old Trafford
Carrick returned to Old Trafford in January following Ruben Amorim’s sacking, for his second spell in temporary charge after standing in following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure in 2021. He then had a three-season spell in charge of Middlesbrough but was sacked last summer after failing to reach the play-offs.
