Manchester United have decided against appointing club legend Darren Fletcher as their caretaker manager following a dismal FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion.
A Season of Disappointment Culminates in Early Exit
The 2-1 defeat at home to Brighton in the FA Cup third round confirmed that United will end the 2025/26 campaign without a trophy. Having already been eliminated from the Carabao Cup by League Two's Grimsby Town and failed to qualify for any European competition, this loss extinguished their final hope for silverware.
This marks the first time since the 1981-82 season that United have been knocked out of both domestic cup competitions at the earliest possible stage. Furthermore, the lack of European football means the club is on course to play its fewest number of matches in over a century.
Fletcher's Interim Chance Fades
Darren Fletcher, the 41-year-old former midfielder who won five Premier League titles with the club, was placed in temporary charge following the sacking of Ruben Amorim last week. However, his brief tenure, which also included a draw against relegation-threatened Burnley, failed to convince the Old Trafford hierarchy.
As a result, the club has reportedly ruled him out of the running for the caretaker role until the end of the season. Fletcher is now expected to return to his duties with the club's U18 side.
Carrick Impresses in Talks, Solskjaer Slips Back
Attention has now turned to two other former United stars: Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Both held discussions with the club's decision-makers last week.
While Solskjaer, who managed United between 2018 and 2021, was initially considered a frontrunner, the club was reportedly unsettled by the public confidence surrounding his potential return. His subsequent difficult spell at Besiktas also raised questions.
In contrast, Michael Carrick is said to have impressed immensely in his talks. The former England midfielder, who had a brief caretaker stint at United in 2018 and another in 2021, outlined clear methods and plans for the remainder of the season. His successful spell in charge of Middlesbrough, where he earned significant praise, has bolstered his credentials.
Carrick, 44, has now emerged as the clear favourite to take temporary charge. The club aims to confirm the appointment this week ahead of a crucial Manchester derby against City on Saturday.
United will then focus on appointing a permanent successor to Amorim in the summer, with names like Thomas Tuchel, Oliver Glasner, and even Carlo Ancelotti believed to be on a long-term shortlist.
