Manchester United are on the brink of confirming a significant backroom change, with Michael Carrick expected to be named as the club's interim manager on Tuesday. The former United midfielder is set to take the reins until the season's end following discussions with director of football Jason Wilcox.
Carrick's Return and Coaching Team
The official announcement regarding Carrick's appointment is scheduled for Tuesday, according to reports. He will conduct his first training session with the squad on Wednesday as they return from a short break.
Carrick's immediate focus will be preparing the team for a crucial Premier League derby against Manchester City this Saturday. He is likely to be supported by a coaching staff including Darren Fletcher, who has overseen the last two matches, and former Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate is also under consideration.
This will not be Carrick's first stint in the Old Trafford hotseat. He served as caretaker manager for three games in late 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's dismissal, remaining unbeaten with wins against Villarreal and Arsenal and a draw with Chelsea.
January Transfer Funds and Midfield Target
United are prepared to back their new interim boss in the January transfer window, with midfield reinforcements identified as a priority. The club has reportedly identified a key target: Al-Hilal and former Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves.
The 28-year-old Portuguese international, who scored for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League on Monday, could be available for a fee in the region of £20 million. With his contract in Saudi Arabia expiring this summer, United may see an opportunity to secure a bargain deal for the experienced playmaker.
Carrick's Pedigree and United's Challenge
Carrick brings a deep understanding of the club from his illustrious 12-year playing career at United, where he won five Premier League titles and the Champions League. Since hanging up his boots, he cut his managerial teeth with a nearly three-year spell at Middlesbrough.
His task is to steady the ship after Ruben Amorim's dismissal and the team's recent FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton. Following the Manchester derby, United face a tough run of fixtures against Arsenal and Fulham.
The coming days will be critical in shaping the remainder of United's season, with a new interim manager and potential new signing aiming to make an instant impact.
