Michael Carrick, Manchester United’s interim manager, has thrown a real curveball into the club’s plans. Since taking over after Ruben Amorim’s exit in January 2026, Carrick’s side has won four games straight.
This run sparked calls for him to get the job permanently. But United’s hierarchy, burned by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s rushed appointment in 2019, wants to keep a level head.
They’re planning a structured search, led by Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, to find their next long-term boss. It’s a smart move, but Carrick is making it tough.
Carrick’s Fast Start: A Dejavu Moment?
Carrick’s record speaks for itself right now. He’s got four wins from four matches. This includes tough games against top-two league teams and Tottenham. It’s the first time United’s seen four consecutive league wins in two years.
That’s a significant turnaround from Amorim’s 14-month stint. The team looks rejuvenated. He pushed Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo wide. Also, he paired Matheus Cunha with Bruno Fernandes in the number 10 role, a tactical shift that’s worked.
This early success brings back memories, good and bad. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, another former player, also started his interim spell strong.
He won his first four as permanent manager, the first since Sir Matt Busby. Solskjaer won 14 of his first 19 games overall. But then things fell apart, with only two wins from the final 12 in the 2018-19 season before he was later sacked in November 2021.
The Permanent Manager Debate Heats Up
The debate around Carrick staying on is getting louder. A former United midfielder told Goal, “It would be mad not to make Michael Carrick manager permanently” after such a start. He admitted the only criticism against Carrick is his lack of experience.
He also mentioned that if you could get someone like Luis Enrique or Thomas Tuchel, you’d consider it. But right now, the focus is winning.
But not everyone agrees. Roy Keane, never one to mince words, thinks Carrick isn’t the right fit for the permanent role. Even if he wins every game this season, Keane sees the scars from the Solskjaer experiment.
He admits the current momentum is good. But he thinks it’s still too soon to jump to conclusions. And Carrick’s streak, while great, is still quite short.
“It would be mad not to make Michael Carrick manager permanently” after his start; “only criticism is lack of experience… if you could get Luis Enrique or Tuchel… but focus on winning now”
– Former United midfielder (per Goal)
Club Strategy: No Rushed Decisions, Big Names Loom
The club knows it can’t make another rash decision. Gary Neville, a vocal club pundit, confirmed that United initiated a proper permanent manager process.
He named potential candidates like Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola, who could be free agents soon. Neville also mentioned Thomas Tuchel, who might be available post-World Cup. The club “will not be bounced into decision,” he said. Carrick can apply, like anyone else.
ESPN’s Mark Ogden emphasized United’s determination for a proven coach. Someone with Premier League and Champions League experience. He pointed to Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti as strong options.
The hierarchy needs to weigh current momentum against the need for a seasoned manager. This isn’t just about the next few months, it’s about the next few years for Manchester United.
Sky Sports’ Peter Smith noted that Carrick hit the ground running, which raised expectations. He said arguments about the team reaching the “next level” will continue through the summer.
The broader managerial landscape for 2026 is heating up. Lots of big names might be on the move. United can’t ignore those opportunities for a quick fix.
What’s Next for Carrick and United?
United needs Champions League qualification. It’s a key benchmark for any manager, and Carrick’s team is currently on track. His four wins improved their position.
But the real test is maintaining that form. His 4-0-0 record certainly outperforms Amorim’s recent stint. The squad seems to respond to him. Carrick’s success is a good problem for the club, but a problem nonetheless.
The next match is against West Ham. A win would make it five straight. That’s the longest winning streak for United in two years. It would only strengthen Carrick’s case further. But, as ESPN sources indicate, the club isn’t rushing.
They plan to decide the permanent manager closer to season end. This long-term approach aims to avoid repeating past mistakes. The tension between immediate results and a planned future will define United’s spring.
