Michael Carrick is firmly in the driving seat to become Manchester United's next permanent manager, with the 44-year-old having exceeded expectations since taking interim charge in January. United have secured Champions League qualification with three matches to spare, and Carrick is expected to be confirmed in the role following key discussions with senior figures next week.
With two fixtures remaining, a home clash against Nottingham Forest and a trip to Brighton, United are on the verge of cementing a comfortable third-place finish ahead of Liverpool and Aston Villa. A busy summer is anticipated at Old Trafford, and Carrick is seeking guarantees that the club will do everything possible to secure their priority transfer targets.
The former Middlesbrough boss has described the role as a "natural" fit, and his expected confirmation is also seen as crucial to tying down Bruno Fernandes's long-term future. The Portuguese midfielder was close to leaving last summer before being convinced to stay by Ruben Amorim, but he is now prepared to pledge his future with Carrick at the helm.
Meanwhile, departing midfielder Casemiro has been offering guidance to Kobbie Mainoo, calling the youngster the "present and the future of the club." Speaking on Rio Ferdinand's podcast, Casemiro highlighted the challenges of mentoring younger players in the social media era, saying he tries to push Mainoo to train harder and maintain the fear of losing his place.
Casemiro, who has been an integral figure in the second half of the campaign, has been urged to reconsider his departure, but he has focused on helping Mainoo, who has been brought back into the fold under Carrick after struggling under Amorim.
