Manchester United are increasingly expected to appoint interim manager Michael Carrick as their permanent boss, with a final decision anticipated after the season concludes. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the club's new hierarchy, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is conducting a thorough review but sources indicate Carrick is the leading candidate. The delay is attributed to a desire for due diligence and a holistic assessment beyond immediate results.
Carrick's case has been strengthened by a run of nine wins in 13 matches since he replaced the sacked Ruben Amorim, a sequence that has pushed United to the brink of Champions League qualification. The team's form has prompted public endorsements, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher stating he believes Carrick will get the job. "He's going to be the Manchester United manager, certainly next season, no doubt about that – and you can't say he doesn't deserve it," Carragher said, highlighting the "sensational results" achieved.
Internally, players have also voiced support. Defender Harry Maguire pointed to the improved defensive solidity and clinical edge since Carrick altered the team's formation. While the club has assessed other candidates, TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey reports that Carrick has impressed decision-makers with his management of the entire club environment, not just first-team affairs. Staff and players are said to have been "truly bowled over" by his approach, setting a high benchmark for any competitor.
One significant indicator of the club's leaning is Carrick's reported involvement in planning for the summer transfer window, a role typically reserved for a settled manager. United are expected to prioritize signing a midfielder, with Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson linked, and are also reportedly monitoring a Borussia Dortmund right-back valued around €35-40 million. Despite this, Ratcliffe is described as still having a degree of hesitation, wanting to ensure the appointment is perfect and remaining alert to the possibility of another top candidate becoming available.
The final decision rests with Ratcliffe, who will weigh the overwhelming positive internal feedback against a broader vision for the club's future. With multiple other candidates now effectively ruled out, the path appears clear for Carrick, whose interim spell has transformed from a stopgap into a compelling audition. His previous experience at Middlesbrough is also viewed as valuable preparation for the scale of the job at Old Trafford.
