Michael Carrick was summoned to speak with Sir Jim Ratcliffe moments after Manchester United's dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The interim manager was preparing for a post-match interview when a club representative informed him the co-owner wanted a word in the tunnel.
Matheus Cunha scored a stunning 87th-minute winner to complete the turnaround, after Patrick Dorgu had put United ahead following an own goal from Lisandro Martinez and Bryan Mbeumo's equaliser. Mikel Merino had levelled for Arsenal before Cunha's decisive strike, leaving United fourth in the Premier League table.
Speaking after the interview delay, Carrick downplayed the significance of the conversation. “There’s a lot of happy bodies around the camp today and he’s delighted as well,” Carrick told Viaplay. “It was nice to see him.” He added that the victory was “pretty special,” but stressed the need to focus on what comes next.
Former Premier League striker Jan Age Fjortoft, who was due to conduct the interview, revealed the interruption on social media. “Just as I was ready to ask the first question, a representative from Manchester United stopped my preparations and said: ‘Michael, Sir Jim wants to see!'” he wrote.
Despite Carrick's perfect start with two wins, pundit Roy Keane dismissed suggestions he should be considered for the permanent role. “Anybody can win two games,” Keane told Sky Sports. “Even if they get fourth, I still wouldn't be convinced he's the man for the job.”
