Manchester United appears poised to appoint former midfielder Michael Carrick as their new interim manager following a significant shift in the club’s recruitment process. The Red Devils’ hierarchy has intensified its search for a temporary successor to Ruben Amorim, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reporting that Carrick has now overtaken the previous frontrunner, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
While the Norwegian coach originally seemed destined for a sensational return to Old Trafford, extensive face-to-face deliberations over the weekend have reportedly moved the board toward a different conclusion.
The decision-making process reached a critical phase during high-level meetings at the club’s Carrington training base. Carrick, who previously served as a first-team coach and had a brief three-game unbeaten stint as caretaker in 2021, impressed senior officials with his vision for the remainder of the season. INEOS representatives and United’s executive management are prioritizing a leader who understands the existing squad dynamics and can stabilize results immediately. While Solskjaer remains a beloved figure among the supporters, the board currently views Carrick as the more strategically aligned option to guide the team through the current transition period.
“Michael Carrick had positive contact with INEOS and Man United management, advancing to become the new interim manager. Man Utd will announce new coach this week and Carrick is hopeful to get the job. Solskjær, waiting for club’s decision,” Fabrizio Romano shared via his official X handle on Monday.
The incoming manager inherits a squad grappling with a lack of domestic consistency and an early exit from the FA Cup following a 2-1 defeat to Brighton. The club aims to finalize the appointment before the upcoming Manchester derby on Saturday, ensuring the new leader has sufficient time to conduct tactical drills and lift player morale. United officials believe that Carrick’s recent managerial experience in the Championship has refined his tactical approach, making him a more seasoned candidate than during his previous caretaker role.