Rio Ferdinand Condemns 'Mad Talk' from United Legends Over Carrick Future
Rio Ferdinand has launched a fierce defence of Michael Carrick, accusing fellow Manchester United icons Roy Keane and Gary Neville of showing "unbelievable disrespect" towards the interim manager. The former England defender expressed outrage at suggestions that Carrick should not be considered for the permanent role, regardless of his results.
Carrick's Dream Start Sparks Controversy
The 44-year-old has made a spectacular beginning to his tenure as Manchester United's interim head coach, securing six points from his first two matches in charge. Carrick faced arguably the toughest possible opening fixtures, yet masterminded victories against both Manchester City and Arsenal.
United's 2-0 triumph over City at Old Trafford was followed by an impressive 3-2 away win at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, propelling the Red Devils to fourth position in the Premier League table. Beyond the results, fans have been particularly encouraged by the immediate transformation in playing style, with Carrick implementing a faster, more attacking approach.
Keane and Neville Remain Unconvinced
Despite this remarkable start, former United captain Roy Keane has been dismissive of Carrick's long-term prospects. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane stated: "I think if United win every game from now until the end of the season, I still wouldn't be giving him the job. I just think they need a bigger, more experienced manager. Simple as that."
Keane added: "I don't believe he's the man to get Manchester United back winning league titles."
Gary Neville echoed similar sentiments, suggesting Carrick should merely keep the position warm for a "world class" manager like Thomas Tuchel or Carlo Ancelotti. "I think it's right that Michael Carrick keeps the job till the end of the season and hands the baton over to someone of world class ilk," Neville commented. "That's what his job is now."
Ferdinand's Passionate Defence
Ferdinand responded with incredulity on his podcast, Rio Ferdinand Presents, questioning the logic behind dismissing Carrick's achievements. "Michael Carrick's come in and turned the collar up on his long trench coat and said: 'Listen guys, get behind me, I'm gonna put you in a structure that's gonna actually suit the players that we have,'" Ferdinand recounted.
"He's gone and got six points! And people are telling me that, no matter what Michael Carrick does, he shouldn't get the opportunity to manage Man Utd. Where the hell are you people coming from? The disrespect is unbelievable," he continued.
Ferdinand challenged the reasoning behind such definitive statements: "For somebody to say, no matter what this person does, he doesn't deserve to be given the keys to Man Utd, on what grounds are you saying that? That's mad talk."
Historical Context and Differing Perspectives
Keane and Neville's caution appears rooted in recent history, specifically Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure. The Norwegian initially impressed as interim manager, was appointed permanently, but ultimately failed to deliver major silverware. Ferdinand himself famously championed Solskjaer's permanent appointment after United's Champions League victory over PSG in 2018.
However, Ferdinand believes the current situation differs significantly. Wayne Rooney has joined Ferdinand in supporting Carrick, telling Match of the Day 2: "Michael Carrick has got an opportunity to show everyone, to show Manchester United that he's capable of doing the job... If it carries on like this there'll be massive pressure on the Manchester United board to put him in at the end of the season."
Rooney added: "I know they've been there with Ole before, but I think this feels a little bit different."
United's Resurgence Under Carrick
The transformation under Carrick has been particularly evident in key players. Bryan Mbeumo, whose £71 million signing is looking increasingly astute, scored against Arsenal following relentless pressing that forced a defensive error. Patrick Dorgu impressed with a spectacular long-range strike before suffering a hamstring injury, while Harry Maguire delivered a commanding defensive performance.
Carrick's immediate impact has reignited hopes of Champions League qualification and sparked intense debate about United's managerial direction. As the season progresses, the pressure on both Carrick to maintain this form and the club's hierarchy to make the correct long-term decision continues to intensify.
