Michael Carrick: A New Era at Manchester United Amidst Criticism

omidbasir- Michael Carrick acknowledged from the outset that he could never replicate the tenacity of Roy Keane as Manchester United’s midfield enforcer. “I understood fans wanting another Roy Keane, but you can never replace a player like that, so you do it another way,” he remarked.

Carrick made his own mark on the United midfield with his precise passing, introducing a new level of control through possession. Thus, it was surprising for him to discover that Keane had criticized him on television after Carrick’s post-match interview following United’s Champions League defeat to Olympiacos in 2014.

“That interview was just like their performance: flat,” Keane stated. “Say a bit more! A bit more urgency in his interview. That just reflected United’s performance tonight: flat, no urgency.”

While Carrick remained unfazed by Keane’s comments, his wife, Lisa, felt compelled to defend him, expressing her discontent on social media. Her tweet, which described Keane’s remarks as provocative, resulted in a backlash, prompting her to delete the post and seek comfort from Carrick.

Despite the incident, Carrick noted, “It didn’t bother me one bit. I was just thinking about the game. I’m sure Roy didn’t lose sleep over it.” However, this incident ignited a long-standing grudge from Keane that has persisted in his commentary on Sky Sports.

In 2021, when Carrick stepped in as United’s caretaker manager following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, Keane resumed his criticisms. After Carrick’s first Premier League match, a 1-1 draw against Chelsea, Keane remarked, “I disagree with everything he said in that interview. He was sitting in the dugout for the last few months with Ole… If you want loyalty, then get yourself a dog.”

Such comments seem out of place, particularly given Keane’s own management history, which has included instances of contentious behavior. It is conceivable that he might harbor some jealousy regarding Carrick’s opportunity, having faced difficulties during his own tenure at the club.

When asked if he desired the interim role, Keane stated, “They were never going to call me, that was never going to happen. I’d have no problem going into any dressing room and taking control of a dressing room.”

Fast-forward to the present, and just hours after being named United’s head coach for the remainder of the season, Keane launched another critique, saying, “Well, his wife can always come in because she’s got a bit of a big mouth sometimes. She’s probably doing the team talk.”

In his first press conference, Carrick was inevitably asked about Keane’s remarks but maintained his composure, responding, “It honestly doesn’t bother me.” Sources within the club confirm that Carrick remains unaffected by Keane’s jabs, focusing instead on his role.

Carrick’s approach not only showcases his maturity in handling Keane’s provocations but also serves Manchester United well, as the club navigates through a tumultuous period following Ruben Amorim’s controversial comments. He is letting his performance speak for itself, boasting an impressive record of four wins and one draw during his interim management, including victories over prominent managers like Mikel Arteta, Pep Guardiola, and Unai Emery.

While it is premature to assess Carrick’s long-term suitability for the role, Keane has already dismissed him, suggesting that even a winning streak would not earn Carrick the managerial position. “If United win every game until the end of the season, I still wouldn’t be giving him the job,” he commented. “They need a bigger and better manager.”

However, if Carrick were to lead the team to 83 points, it would mark their best season since their last title in 2013, a season in which he played a pivotal role.

Judging Carrick on early performances may be hasty, particularly since high-profile managers have often struggled at United. In contrast, Carrick emphasizes collaboration and unity, in stark contrast to previous management styles.

Harry Maguire remarked, “He’s brought a fresh energy in; the group’s really galvanised,” while Matheus Cunha noted Carrick’s deep understanding of the club’s culture. Lisandro Martinez further emphasized the importance of the team spirit fostered under Carrick’s guidance.

If Carrick can continue producing positive results and inspire the team back into the Champions League, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be considered for a permanent position. Coaching success is not uniform; high-profile names do not always guarantee results.

Alvaro Arbeloa aptly stated that Real Madrid is about “passion, sacrifice, and character.” Similarly, Carrick has unlocked potential in United’s players that previous management failed to achieve. The real challenge lies in maintaining this momentum against teams that historically present difficulties.

United’s board should not rush into contract negotiations yet but should keep an eye on Carrick’s progress. If he successfully propels the team into the top four or beyond, he deserves to be considered equally, irrespective of Keane’s opinions.