Michael Carrick has spoken of his immense pride and focus after being confirmed as Manchester United's interim manager until the end of the season. The 44-year-old former midfielder, who left the club in 2021, has returned to Old Trafford following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
An Emotional Return to Carrington
In his first interview with club media since the appointment on Tuesday, 13th January 2026, Carrick did not hide his emotions. He described walking back into the club's Carrington training complex as an "unbelievable feeling."
"You know, it's been part of my life for so long," Carrick stated. "The fact that I left the club for a number of years recently has never really left me. I'm quickly focused on doing the job. It's a big responsibility, a massive pleasure and a privilege to be here."
He also noted the significant changes at Carrington since his last visit, praising the renovated facilities as "hugely impressive" and highlighting the positive atmosphere within the building.
Learning from Middlesbrough Experience
Carrick returns to Manchester United after a period away from the club, which included a spell in charge of Middlesbrough. He was dismissed by the Championship side in June 2025 after a tenure that saw an initial play-off finish followed by eighth and tenth-place finishes.
The interim boss reflected on this time as a crucial learning experience. "I've learned loads," he admitted. "This [United] was all I knew for so long and to go out to Middlesbrough, I learned an awful lot. Of course I made mistakes... that's life and part of learning and becoming better."
Carrick revealed that his approach during the recruitment process convinced United's sporting director Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada to bring him back.
Immediate Focus on Manchester City Challenge
There will be little time for sentimentality, as Carrick's first match in charge presents a monumental challenge. Manchester United are set to host rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford this coming weekend.
Carrick emphasised his immediate focus is on delivering results for the club. "We want to do a good job and this place deserves that," he asserted. "So massively, massively focused to get started and get going."
This marks Carrick's second stint in a managerial role at United, having previously served as caretaker manager for three games in 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's dismissal.
