Michael Carrick Manchester United interim plans are now firmly in motion after the club reached an agreement in principle to appoint the former midfielder as head coach until the end of the season.
The development follows the sacking of Ruben Amorim earlier this month, with United’s hierarchy moving quickly to stabilise the club ahead of a crucial run of Premier League fixtures.
According to The Athletic, Carrick has emerged as the preferred candidate after holding face-to-face talks with senior executives at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick Moves Into Pole Position
The agreement includes Carrick’s proposed backroom staff and is now subject to final contract details. An official announcement is expected imminently if paperwork is completed without issue.
Should everything be finalised in time, Carrick’s first match in charge would come against Manchester City at Old Trafford — a baptism of fire that underlines the scale of the challenge awaiting him.
The interim appointment process has been led by director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada, with final approval required from Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.
More background on how United arrived at this point can be found in our detailed report: Inside Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United exit.
Carrick’s Previous Manchester United Experience
This will not be Carrick’s first spell in temporary charge at Old Trafford. He previously served as caretaker manager in 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal, overseeing three matches — winning two and drawing one.
After leaving United when Ralf Rangnick took charge, Carrick built his managerial credentials at Middlesbrough. He famously guided the club from 21st to fourth during the 2022–23 Championship season, narrowly missing out on promotion.
United’s decision to turn to Carrick reflects a desire for familiarity, authority, and calm leadership during a turbulent period.
Why United Chose an Interim Route
United’s leadership are keen to take time over selecting a permanent replacement for Amorim. By appointing an interim manager, the club can steady performances while conducting a thorough long-term search.
Carrick was preferred ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with club insiders believing his recent managerial experience and tactical grounding made him a stronger short-term fit. You can read more on United’s wider interim planning here: Manchester United interim set-up explained.
What Comes Next
Attention will now turn to results on the pitch, with United under pressure following a 2-2 draw at Burnley and an FA Cup third-round exit to Brighton. For Carrick, the immediate task is restoring structure, confidence, and identity — qualities he embodied during his playing career at Old Trafford.
As United prepare for a defining period, the Michael Carrick Manchester United interim appointment represents both a short-term solution and a symbolic return to familiar values.
