Manchester United are on the brink of confirming a significant backroom change, with Michael Carrick expected to be announced as the club's new interim manager on Tuesday. The former United midfielder is set to take the reins until the end of the season following discussions with director of football Jason Wilcox.
Carrick's Coaching Team Takes Shape
Carrick, 44, is scheduled to lead his first training session on Wednesday as the squad returns from a short break. He will be swiftly tasked with preparing the team for a crucial Premier League derby against Manchester City this Saturday.
To support him, Darren Fletcher is anticipated to join the coaching setup, having overseen the last two matches after Ruben Amorim's dismissal. The club is also considering a role for Jonathan Woodgate, the former Real Madrid defender who worked with Carrick at Middlesbrough.
January Funds and Midfield Reinforcements
United's hierarchy are prepared to back their new interim boss in the January transfer window, with midfield reinforcements a clear priority. A key target has already emerged: Al-Hilal and former Wolves star Ruben Neves.
The Portuguese international, 28, could be available for a fee in the region of £20 million. With his contract in Saudi Arabia expiring this summer, United sense an opportunity for a bargain deal. Neves recently scored for Al-Hilal in their victory over Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.
Carrick's Previous United Tenure and Pedigree
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 exit, remaining unbeaten with wins against Villarreal and Arsenal and a draw with Chelsea.
After leaving when Ralf Rangnick was appointed, Carrick built his managerial reputation at Middlesbrough, overseeing 136 games. His legendary playing career at United from 2006 to 2018 yielded five Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph among ten major honours.
The immediate fixture list is daunting, with games against City, Arsenal, and Fulham looming. The appointment aims to bring stability after a turbulent period that included an FA Cup exit to Brighton.
