Michael Carrick Open to Future as Manchester United Head Coach

Michael Carrick has not dismissed the possibility of extending his tenure as Manchester United’s head coach beyond the current season.

Carrick was officially introduced as United’s new head coach on Tuesday, tasked with leading the team through the final 17 Premier League matches of this campaign.

The 44-year-old, who had a brief caretaker stint in 2021, is set to manage his first match in this new role against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday.

While addressing criticism from former United players, Carrick emphasized the importance of focus on improvement.

Despite the club’s announcement confirming Carrick’s position until the season’s end, he has been designated as head coach, rather than as an interim or caretaker. This distinction is notable, as both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick were initially assigned caretaker or interim roles when they took charge in previous seasons.

“I think we’re realistic about where we are at the moment, which is why I’m here and the role I have to fulfill,” Carrick stated during a news conference on Friday. “That does not alter our day-to-day approach or our focus on making long-term decisions for the team’s strategy.”

Carrick clarified that he is not merely approaching this role as a stopgap. “We want to plan to improve beyond this season. My primary concern is creating a positive environment for the players. What happens beyond that is uncertain, and we’ll see how things unfold.”

In his remarks, Carrick expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I’m here because I enjoy it and feel privileged to be in this position. This does not change regardless of the title or contract length. I aim to leverage my experience to help the team achieve its goals.”

Aside from his three games in charge over four years ago, Carrick’s only other managerial role was a two-and-a-half-year stint at Middlesbrough, from which he was dismissed in June 2025.

“I’m content in my role, understand what is required, and feel ready to take this on,” he added. “Having worked closely with José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, stepping into this role feels quite natural.”

Carrick acknowledged the scrutiny that comes with leadership, saying, “Questions will always arise until you’ve made an impact. I can assure you that I feel at home here and am eager to get started.”