Manchester United are poised to name former midfielder Michael Carrick as their interim manager, with an announcement expected in the next two days. The move comes after senior players reportedly rejected the idea of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returning to the club.
Carrick Emerges as Favoured Candidate
Michael Carrick has become the leading contender to take temporary charge at Old Trafford following further negotiations on Monday. Chief executive Omar Berrada and football director Jason Wilcox are working to finalise the appointment, aiming to give the new boss time to prepare for Sunday's crucial Manchester derby against City.
The club initially held talks with former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about a sensational comeback, but Mirror Football understands that several key squad members expressed a lack of faith in the Norwegian. Instead, the players have shown a preference for Carrick to lead them for the remainder of the season.
Ronaldo's Past Verdict Adds Weight to Appointment
As news of Carrick's impending appointment broke, past comments from Cristiano Ronaldo praising his former teammate resurfaced. Back in December 2021, following Carrick's brief caretaker spell, Ronaldo took to social media to offer a glowing endorsement.
"Michael Carrick was a class act as a player and he can become a great coach as well," Ronaldo wrote. "Nothing is impossible for this guy. Personally, I'm proud to have played with him by my side as well as with him as a manager on our bench."
Carrick, who has been out of work since leaving Middlesbrough in June, is anticipated to take his first training session on Wednesday. He previously stepped up following Solskjaer's sacking in November 2021, guiding United to a Champions League win over Villarreal, a victory against Arsenal, and a draw with Chelsea.
United Seek Stability After Poor Run
The search for an interim manager follows a difficult period for the club. United have won just one of their last seven matches in all competitions. Darren Fletcher, who oversaw the recent 2-2 draw with Burnley and the 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton, confirmed he would be reporting to the training ground on Monday to learn his fate.
"I've given it my best, and ultimately, I'm disappointed to not be able to win a game," Fletcher said after the Brighton loss. "I am more disappointed than anybody really because I care for the club... It's not about me. I've had my time as a player."
Solskjaer, who won 54% of his 168 games in charge between 2018 and 2021, was initially tipped to succeed Fletcher. However, the players' intervention has now paved the way for Carrick's return, with all eyes on how he will prepare the team for the high-stakes derby clash at Old Trafford this weekend.
