Michael Carrick has revealed his surprise at the unity he found within the Manchester United squad after taking over as interim manager in January. The 44-year-old, now appointed permanent manager on a deal until 2028, succeeded the sacked Ruben Amorim and has since transformed the club's season.
Speaking to former United star Wayne Rooney on Inside Carrington, Carrick said: 'Do you know what you hope to see? Good people with a willingness to do well. The intentions, loving being here, the intentions to do the right thing. I was probably surprised by how good a group it is in terms of wanting to do well for each other.' He added that the squad was 'really in it together' and 'listening and learning'.
Under Carrick, United have won 11 of 16 games, including victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool. The team has qualified for the Champions League for the first time in three years, a stark contrast to when Carrick took over with the club seventh in the Premier League and having won just one of their last seven matches.
Carrick's previous managerial experience was at Middlesbrough, but he had worked as a first-team coach at United under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Upon his permanent appointment, he said: 'From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride.'
Director of football Jason Wilcox praised Carrick's impact, stating: 'Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men's team. He has forged a strong bond with the players and can be proud of the winning culture at Carrington and in the dressing room.'
