Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has publicly expressed his desire to return to Old Trafford, potentially as part of a new coaching setup led by his former teammate Michael Carrick.
Carrick Set for Interim Manager Appointment
According to reports, Michael Carrick is expected to be appointed as Manchester United's interim manager until the end of the season within the next 48 hours. This development follows the dismissal of Ruben Amorim a week ago. The club's director of football, Jason Wilcox, and CEO Omar Berrada are understood to have interviewed both Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with the former making a stronger impression.
The 44-year-old Carrick, a five-time Premier League winner with United, previously had a brief stint as caretaker manager after Solskjaer's departure. He later managed Middlesbrough, achieving a play-off finish in his first season and a League Cup semi-final in his second, before being dismissed last summer.
Rooney's 'No-Brainer' Return
The potential appointment has opened the door for a dramatic comeback for Wayne Rooney. The 40-year-old, who was on holiday in Barbados with Carrick just last week, stated he would not hesitate to accept a role on the coaching staff.
'Of course I would, it's a no-brainer,' Rooney said when asked about the possibility. 'Michael is a very clever person and he will command respect from the dressing room. I think what the club needs is people around the place... who know the club and care for the club.'
Rooney, out of work since being sacked by Plymouth Argyle in December 2024, believes the club has lost its 'family feel' and sees this as a chance to restore the spirit of Manchester United. He suggested that former players like Darren Fletcher and John O'Shea could also play key roles.
United's Uphill Battle for European Football
The new interim regime faces a significant challenge to salvage United's season. Currently sitting seventh in the Premier League and eliminated from both domestic cups after a defeat to Brighton, qualification for Europe is seen as essential.
Caretaker manager Darren Fletcher, who is likely to take a coaching role under Carrick, acknowledged the team must improve. 'This team is still good enough to achieve success this season but they have to dig deep,' Fletcher said. 'The fans have got every right to air their grievances... I'm sure if the players show the right reaction, the fans will get behind them.'
United's first test under the likely new management will be a formidable one: a Premier League clash against arch-rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford next Saturday.
