Michael Carrick was photographed driving into Carrington on Tuesday to begin working as Manchester United’s interim manager.
The club, though, are yet to announce the appointment.
Carrick beat former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was at one point seen as the favourite for the job, after impressing club bosses during face-to-face interviews over the weekend.
According to reports, Carrick emerged as the number one candidate after an intervention from the club’s senior players, who preferred the former midfielder over Solskjaer. The UK’s Daily Mail also report that Carrick’s “clear plan” for Kobbie Mainoo also played a role in him winning the job.
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🚨 Michael Carrick, already at Carrington with official announcement expected as next formal step.
Manchester United have agreed all terms of his short term contract and also his backroom staff. pic.twitter.com/U8jeo3iQ0x
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 13, 2026
In an interview with Rio Ferdinand in September, Carrick revealed his thoughts on how Mainoo was being utilised by Ruben Amorim, who was sacked last week.
“To have a talent like that, as he’s shown already, you’ve got to have players like that. They get it, they know it, let’s build around them. There’s definitely a place for Mainoo there for sure,” Carrick told Ferdinand.
Under Amorim, Mainoo saw limited action on the pitch, and did not make a single start this season under the Portuguese boss, leading to intense speculation about his future. His first start of the season came in Sunday’s FA Cup third round loss to Brighton.
Former England assistant coach Steve Holland, as well former United defender, the recently retired Jonny Evans, Jonathan Woodgate, and Travis Binnion will make up his coaching staff.
Carrick’s first assignment as Manchester United manager will be a Premier League clash against fierce local rivals Manchester City, followed by a visit to London to take on league leaders Arsenal.
With United facing an immediate run of high-pressure fixtures, Carrick’s interim spell will offer him a swift opportunity to demonstrate his credentials at the highest level. How he handles the club’s biggest stars – and whether he can unlock the potential of talents such as Mainoo – may go a long way in determining not only United’s short-term fortunes, but also Carrick’s longer-term prospects in the Old Trafford dugout.
Sport
