Rooney Champions Carrick for Permanent Manchester United Role
A significant debate has erupted among Manchester United legends regarding the future of interim manager Michael Carrick, with Wayne Rooney firmly advocating for his permanent appointment if current form persists. The 44-year-old former England midfielder was asked to lead the club until the end of the season following Ruben Amorim's dismissal earlier this month, and he has made a spectacular start to his tenure.
Impressive Start Sparks Managerial Discussion
Carrick's reign began with a notable 2-0 victory over Manchester City and continued with a thrilling 3-2 win at Arsenal last Sunday, propelling United to fourth place in the Premier League table. His approach has rapidly transformed the team's style of play, yielding immediate positive results and reigniting optimism among the fanbase.
Rooney, speaking on Match of the Day 2, expressed strong support for Carrick, stating that if he maintains this level of performance and secures wins throughout the remainder of the season, there should be no obstacle to him taking the job permanently. "Michael Carrick has got an opportunity to show everyone, to show Manchester United that he's capable of doing the job," Rooney remarked. "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."
He acknowledged the precedent set by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's caretaker appointment in December 2018, which led to a permanent role but ultimately ended without silverware after 168 games. However, Rooney believes the current situation feels distinct, emphasising Carrick's potential to bring sustained success.
Keane and Neville Advocate for Experienced Appointment
In contrast, Roy Keane remains sceptical, arguing that United require a manager with a proven track record of success, regardless of Carrick's interim achievements. "I think if United win every game from now until the end of the season, I still wouldn't be giving him the job," Keane told Sky Sports. "I just think they need a bigger, more experienced manager. Simple as that."
Keane highlighted the long-term challenges facing the club, questioning whether Carrick could guide United to league titles. "Are we all going to sit here and think Michael Carrick will get Manchester United winning league titles? I don't believe he's the man to get Manchester United back winning league titles," he added.
Gary Neville echoed this sentiment, despite praising Carrick's impact. Neville suggested that Carrick should "hand the baton over" to a world-class manager like Thomas Tuchel or Carlo Ancelotti at season's end, cautioning against emotional decisions based on short-term form. "Manchester United have acted emotionally a number of times over the last 10-12 years," Neville noted, while admitting his happiness with the recent performances.
Vieira Offers Support for Carrick's Chance
Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira provided a counterpoint, backing Carrick to deserve an opportunity, drawing parallels with Pep Guardiola's early career at Barcelona. "I think he deserves to have a chance to manage United," Vieira said. "I don't think being young or inexperienced should be enough. They deserve a chance and then time will say if he is good enough for United or not."
The discussion underscores a broader tension at Old Trafford between rewarding interim success and seeking established managerial pedigree. As Carrick continues his interim role, his ability to sustain this momentum will likely intensify the debate among fans, pundits, and the club's hierarchy.
