Michael Carrick is expected to be appointed as Manchester United's permanent manager, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher stating the decision has already been made internally. The interim boss has overseen a dramatic upturn in form, securing nine wins from 13 matches, including Monday's 2-1 victory over Brentford that moved United to the brink of Champions League qualification.
Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, asserted that Carrick will be in charge next season. "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. "They are absolutely sensational results. They're the results of a title-winning team." While the club has not made an official announcement, sources indicate Carrick is also actively involved in planning for the summer transfer window, a strong indicator of the club's intentions.
According to TEAMtalk, the decision has been deliberately delayed by the INEOS hierarchy, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who wish to conduct a thorough review of all options before the season concludes. The club's leadership, including director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada, is understood to have assessed several other candidates. Ratcliffe is reportedly hesitant to finalize the appointment to ensure it is the correct long-term choice and to guard against a top candidate suddenly becoming available.
However, the same sources report that multiple alternatives have been ruled out and that Carrick has set a high benchmark. His work has reportedly impressed players and staff alike, extending beyond first-team results to his overall management of the club. Defender Harry Maguire endorsed Carrick's impact, telling reporters the results since his arrival "speak for themselves" and highlighting improved defensive and attacking efficiency.
Carrick, who previously managed Middlesbrough, took over on an interim basis following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. His tenure has transformed United's season, with the team now 11 points clear of sixth place. TEAMtalk correspondent Graeme Bailey explained the club's broader evaluation, noting that lessons were learned from past appointments based solely on short-term results or reputation. "When you speak to United and people within the club, they have garnered so much respect for Carrick and his team in terms of how they have managed the club, not just the first team," Bailey revealed.
The expectation of Carrick's appointment comes amid reports of United's transfer activity, with midfield and defence cited as priority areas. The club is reportedly targeting a midfielder to replace Casemiro and holds an interest in a Borussia Dortmund right-back. Carrick's involvement in these plans further cements the likelihood of his permanent appointment, with an official announcement anticipated once the season concludes and the club's review is fully complete.
