Manchester United are set to open negotiations with Michael Carrick next week regarding the managerial role on a permanent basis, following his impressive interim spell. The club views the 44-year-old as their primary candidate for the long-term position.
Carrick has overseen 15 Premier League matches, amassing 33 points—the highest tally in the division during that period—and secured Champions League qualification. Under his guidance, United are on track for a third-place finish.
The former midfielder has revitalised the careers of Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, both of whom have signed new long-term contracts. Several players, including Amad Diallo, Matheus Cunha, Casemiro, and Mainoo, have publicly endorsed Carrick's permanent appointment.
After a 3-2 victory over Liverpool last week, Carrick described the role as feeling “natural” and expressed his love for the job. He returned to Old Trafford in January following Ruben Amorim's dismissal, marking his second interim stint after initially stepping in for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2021.
Carrick previously managed Middlesbrough for three seasons but was dismissed last summer after failing to secure a play-off place. Despite considering other candidates, United have not ruled out alternative appointments, though Carrick remains the frontrunner.
