Manchester United Prioritize External Managerial Appointment
Manchester United are reportedly leaning toward making an external managerial appointment, despite Michael Carrick's impressive performance as interim manager. The club's decision-makers appear to favor bringing in an established external candidate rather than promoting Carrick permanently, even as the former midfielder has delivered strong results since taking over.
Carrick's Impressive Interim Tenure
Since being appointed caretaker manager last month, Carrick has guided Manchester United to an impressive run of form. The team has taken 13 points from a possible 15, winning four consecutive matches before Tuesday's 1-1 draw with West Ham. This represents a significant improvement from the team's position under former boss Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed after a disappointing 14-month reign.
Carrick's tenure began with notable victories over title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, followed by wins against Fulham and Tottenham. Even in the West Ham draw, Benjamin Sesko's injury-time equalizer maintained Carrick's unbeaten record. Under his leadership, Manchester United have climbed back into the Premier League's top four, reviving their Champions League qualification hopes.
Club's Strategic Decision-Making
Despite Carrick's success, Manchester United are not accelerating their plans to appoint a new manager and reportedly do not view the interim boss as the favorite for the permanent position. According to club sources, United have begun the process of speaking to and analyzing potential external candidates, building data profiles to determine who should be the next manager.
The club has emphasized they will not be rushed into a decision based solely on short-term results. "They're going to wait until towards the end of the season," according to reports of the club's official position. This strategic approach suggests United are looking beyond immediate form to consider long-term vision and managerial pedigree.
Tuchel Emerges as Preferred Candidate
Multiple reports indicate that England manager Thomas Tuchel is emerging as the preferred choice of Old Trafford decision-makers. Tuchel, who took charge of the Three Lions last year, is only contracted to England until after this summer's World Cup, making him potentially available in July.
Tuchel brings an impressive managerial pedigree, having previously managed Bayern Munich, PSG, Borussia Dortmund, and Chelsea. During his time at Chelsea, he won both the Champions League and Club World Cup, demonstrating his ability to succeed at the highest level of European football.
Player Support for Carrick
Overlooking Carrick would represent a surprising decision given the apparent backing he has from the Manchester United squad. Captain Bruno Fernandes has repeatedly praised the former England midfielder since he took over, and goalkeeper Senne Lammens has also expressed support.
"We can be happy with the first five games with him as a coach," said Lammens, who was signed by Amorim for £18 million last summer. "One of his strong suits is communication, being clear about what he wants. We knew what we had to do and executed the plan."
Historical Context and Future Considerations
Manchester United were sixth in the Premier League when they decided to dismiss Amorim, whose reign was marked by underwhelming performances and public criticism of club leadership. While the team had improved from last season's 15th-place finish, consistency remained an issue, with early exits from both domestic cup competitions.
Carrick's return to Old Trafford was initially expected to be temporary, with United always planning to make a permanent appointment at the season's end. However, the team's brilliant form under the ex-midfielder has led to growing calls for Carrick to be named as Amorim's full-time replacement.
England legend Wayne Rooney has suggested Carrick will become "impossible" to ignore if United's current form continues through the end of the season. Other high-profile names linked with the position include Carlo Ancelotti, Mauricio Pochettino, Oliver Glasner, Luis Enrique, and Roberto De Zerbi.
Upcoming Challenges and Schedule
Due to their FA Cup elimination by Brighton, Manchester United have almost two weeks off before returning to Premier League action on February 23 against Everton. This break provides decision-makers with additional time to evaluate both Carrick's continued performance and external candidates.
The club faces the delicate balancing act of acknowledging Carrick's successful interim period while pursuing what they believe to be the best long-term solution for Manchester United's managerial position. With Champions League qualification now within reach and player support evident, the decision becomes increasingly complex as the season progresses.
