Manchester United are closing in on the appointment of Michael Carrick as their interim head coach, with the club legend receiving a crucial endorsement from Sir Alex Ferguson.
Ferguson's Influence Seals Carrick's Return
Further talks held on Monday solidified Carrick's position as the frontrunner for the role, which is expected to run until the end of the season. The 44-year-old former United midfielder has moved ahead of another candidate, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, in the race for the temporary position at Old Trafford.
According to reports from talkSPORT, Carrick's candidacy received the significant backing of the club's legendary former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. This influence is understood to have been pivotal in the club's decision-making process.
Carrick is no stranger to stepping into the breach at United. He previously took caretaker charge for three matches in late 2021 following Solskjaer's dismissal, winning two and drawing one of those games before Ralf Rangnick's arrival. He had served on the first-team coaching staff under both Solskjaer and Jose Mourinho.
Carrick's United Pedigree and Recent Record
The former England international enjoyed a glittering 12-year playing career at United, making 464 appearances and winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League. After his stint as caretaker, he was appointed manager of Middlesbrough in October 2022, guiding them to the Championship play-offs in his first season before being dismissed last summer.
The club also held discussions with Solskjaer about a potential return. The Norwegian was in permanent charge at Old Trafford from December 2018 to November 2021, securing a second-place finish and reaching the Europa League final.
The managerial change comes after Ruben Amorim was sacked on January 5, ending a 14-month reign that saw United finish 15th in the Premier League and lose the Europa League final to Tottenham. Academy director Darren Fletcher took temporary charge, overseeing a draw with Burnley and an FA Cup exit to Brighton.
The Immediate Challenges Facing Carrick
Carrick will have a significant in-tray upon his expected return to the club. Former teammate and club icon Wayne Rooney has publicly backed the appointment, stating Carrick will "command respect from the dressing room." Rooney even suggested he would join Carrick's staff if asked, emphasising the need for people who "know the club" to restore its identity.
Key priorities will include addressing the form of striker Benjamin Sesko, who has shown promise but inconsistency, and likely abandoning the unpopular 3-4-3 system used under Amorim. Carrick favoured a 4-2-3-1 formation at Middlesbrough, a shape many believe suits the current United squad.
He may also look to reintegrate young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and restore captain Bruno Fernandes to a more advanced role, where he previously thrived under Solskjaer. Fernandes contributed to 0.81 goals per game during Carrick's time as assistant, a statistic the new interim boss will be keen to revive.
United's next match is a crucial derby at home to Manchester City on Saturday, offering Carrick an immediate and formidable challenge if his appointment is confirmed.
