Michael Carrick has stressed that harnessing player ego, rather than eliminating it, is crucial for Manchester United's return to the top. The 44-year-old, who made 464 appearances for the club and won five Premier League titles, took over as interim head coach midway through the 2025-26 season and has overseen a remarkable turnaround, with United set to finish third and secure Champions League qualification.
Carrick is widely expected to be confirmed as Ruben Amorim's permanent successor. He drew a contrast with Real Madrid's appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa on the same day, noting that while United have thrived, the Spanish giants have struggled amid infighting. Asked whether United's settled dressing room was due to the removal of ego, Carrick argued that a degree of ego is necessary for elite performance.
“To perform at the top, top level, you’ve got to have some sort of ego,” Carrick said. “How you use it is the key thing. Putting the ego from yourself into the team is important. It doesn’t have to be negative – it’s essentially a pride in yourself and what you’re working towards. The spirit and camaraderie here are clear, and using that ego for the club can be powerful.”
United host Nottingham Forest on Sunday in their final home game of the shortest season in 111 years. Midfielder Casemiro is expected to bid an emotional farewell before leaving this summer. The match will also see Elliot Anderson, a long-term United target, in opposition, though Carrick acknowledged the Forest and England international may be out of reach due to interest from Manchester City and a high price tag.
“He’s done well – a big part of their team,” Carrick said of Anderson, a fellow graduate of Wallsend Boys Club. “They’ve had a good season, reaching the Europa League semi-finals. He’s an important player for them.”
