Michael Carrick Poised for Return to Manchester United as Head Coach

According to multiple reports on Monday afternoon, a deal is nearing completion that would see Michael Carrick return to Old Trafford just over four years after a brief three-game spell as caretaker manager in late 2021.

The Daily Mail indicates that an announcement from Manchester United could occur within the next 48 hours, ideally allowing Carrick to lead training for the first time on Wednesday, when players return from a two-day holiday following their FA Cup loss to Brighton.

Final details are reportedly being finalized, particularly concerning the composition of Carrick’s backroom coaching team. Notably, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stated that Carrick has “accepted all conditions” of the proposed contract.

Following the recent defeat to Brighton, former caretaker boss Darren Fletcher emphasized that rebuilding confidence within the squad would be a top priority. He acknowledged that it may take time for players to adjust away from Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation.

“Confidence and adapting to a new style and formation can be challenging,” Fletcher told TNT Sports. “However, the players must unite. Ultimately, it is up to them to improve their situation and build confidence through hard-fought results.

“While playing attractive football is desirable, the primary goal is to secure victories first. Once that is achieved, the team can focus on developing a more dynamic style of play.”

During Carrick’s previous stint as Manchester United’s caretaker in 2021, Cristiano Ronaldo was among those playing under him. Ronaldo, who had previously shared a successful tenure with Carrick at Old Trafford, referred to him as a “class act” and expressed confidence in Carrick’s potential to become a great coach.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner remarked, “Personally, I’m proud to have played alongside him, both as a teammate and as a manager.”

As Carrick prepares for his first match back, he faces a challenging baptism of fire against Manchester City this Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s squad is currently unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions, recently dominating Exeter with a remarkable 10-0 victory in the FA Cup. They also secured a 3-0 victory over United earlier this season at the Etihad Stadium.

This time, Carrick will have 17 matches to manage as United aims to close out their season, with only their Premier League position remaining to contest. Having exited both domestic cups at the earliest opportunity and with no European football, the 2025-26 season is poised to be the club’s shortest since World War I, with only 40 games in total.

It remains uncertain whether Fletcher will continue as part of the first-team staff under Carrick or revert to his previous role as Under-18s manager. He had recently promoted Under-21s manager Travis Binnion, Under-21s assistant, and former teammate Jonny Evans to assist during the last two games.