Michael Carrick Hints at Desire to Continue as Manchester United Head Coach

Michael Carrick has achieved victory in all three matches since taking over as interim manager of Manchester United.

Recently, Carrick indicated a potential interest in continuing as head coach beyond the current season. Since his appointment as the temporary successor to Ruben Amorim on January 13, he has largely refrained from discussing his long-term future at Old Trafford.

Unlike his predecessor, Amorim, Carrick tends to avoid sensational headlines or engaging in discussions about sensitive matters that management would prefer to keep confidential. Therefore, his response to inquiries about United’s summer plans and his involvement in them carried significant weight.

“Nothing’s changed, to be honest,” he stated. “I’m fully aware of the role I’m doing here and the responsibility I’ve got. We want to be successful, and I want the club to be successful beyond the end of the season—whether that includes me or someone else.

“At this stage, I can’t control that, and we’ll see what happens, but it’s certainly about trying to improve the team and making Manchester United stronger. Results in a short timeframe don’t alter that. If they have, then something is wrong. It cannot be a knee-jerk response, whether the results are exceptionally good or if there are issues to address.”

When asked about the implications of a continued winning streak, Carrick maintained a balanced perspective. “I’m loving what I’m doing. I feel at home here, but I fully understand the situation, so I’m not getting too carried away,” he remarked.

Manchester United has committed to a thorough evaluation of all potential candidates to replace Amorim. However, a reliable source familiar with managerial appointments indicated to BBC Sport that finalizing a contract with a World Cup manager prior to the tournament could pose significant risks, including adverse publicity from the nation involved.

In other developments, Carrick confirmed that Denmark international Patrick Dorgu might face a ten-week absence due to a hamstring injury sustained during last month’s win against Arsenal.

Additionally, Carrick revealed that a connection through the Football Association (FA) between his brother Graeme and Steve Holland led to the former England and Chelsea assistant coach joining the team at United. Holland’s inclusion in a coaching staff that includes former England international Jonathan Woodgate, ex-United defender Jonny Evans, and under-21 coach Travis Binnion has been praised as a strategic advantage.

“When discussions were underway about my potential appointment, I spoke with my brother, and we mentioned Steve,” Carrick explained. “He knew him from the FA, and I had encountered Steve on several occasions. I was well aware of his experience and quality, and we connected immediately.

“He has been a lifelong Manchester United supporter, which was a great start, but his success at Chelsea and understanding of what it takes to win trophies with various styles, managers, and players have also been invaluable.”

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