Manchester United have moved swiftly to appoint a familiar face to steady the ship, with Michael Carrick agreeing in principle to return as interim manager until the end of the season. The 44-year-old club legend is set to have his contract finalised and could be in the dugout for the crucial Manchester derby this Saturday.
Carrick's Immediate In-Tray: Fernandes and Mainoo
Carrick, who served on the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and had a brief but successful three-match caretaker stint in 2021, faces several pressing issues. His most immediate task involves the club captain, Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese maestro, with over 310 appearances, 103 goals and 95 assists for United, was the subject of a £100million bid from Saudi side Al-Hilal in the summer, which the club rejected.
However, Fernandes was reportedly hurt by suggestions United were open to his departure. One of Carrick's primary roles will be to reassure the skipper that his long-term future remains at Old Trafford, using his existing relationship with the player from their previous time together.
A Fresh Start for Academy Talent
Another key decision surrounds the role of promising midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old academy graduate has struggled for minutes this season, making just one start in the Carabao Cup under the sacked Ruben Amorim. Carrick's arrival signals a potential fresh start.
The interim boss has previously praised Mainoo, stating last summer: "I think for a club to have a player that has come through the academy, knows the club and feels it - that's massive... let's help him, build on him, and stick with him." This endorsement suggests Mainoo could be in line for significantly more first-team action during Carrick's tenure, which will please supporters eager to see youth promoted.
Resolving the Midfield Puzzle
Beyond individual cases, Carrick must solve United's overall midfield balance, a problem his predecessor failed to crack. His preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, used during his spell at Middlesbrough, should allow Fernandes to operate in his favoured advanced role.
This leaves Casemiro, Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, and Mason Mount as senior options, with youngster Jack Fletcher also promoted. United are reportedly still eyeing January reinforcements, with ex-Wolves star Ruben Neves, valued at around £20m by Al-Hilal, among the names linked. Whether through the transfer market or the academy, Carrick's expertise as a former world-class defensive midfielder will be vital in finding the right blend for United's push for Champions League qualification.
