Juan Mata Endorses Michael Carrick for Permanent Manchester United Manager Role
Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has openly advocated for Michael Carrick to be appointed as the club's permanent manager, following Carrick's impressive interim tenure. Mata, who played alongside Carrick at Old Trafford, expressed his admiration for the 44-year-old's capabilities and the positive transformation he has brought to the team.
Carrick's Remarkable Turnaround at Manchester United
Michael Carrick took over as interim manager last month amidst significant turmoil at Manchester United. His predecessor, Ruben Amorim, managed only three wins in his final eleven matches, leading to his dismissal. Caretaker manager Darren Fletcher also struggled, with a draw against Burnley and a loss to Brighton in the FA Cup highlighting the team's instability.
Since assuming control, Carrick has orchestrated a dramatic revival, securing five victories in six Premier League matches. This unbeaten run has injected a renewed sense of optimism among fans, something that has been scarce since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. Carrick, a five-time Premier League champion with United as a player, aims to extend this streak in the upcoming home fixture against Crystal Palace.
Mata's Glowing Testimonial for Carrick
In an interview with talkSPORT, Juan Mata lauded Carrick's impact, describing him as "very capable" and "a very intelligent guy." Mata emphasized Carrick's character, professionalism, and ability to connect with players, noting that he is "enjoying watching the games at the moment." He recalled Carrick's playing days, highlighting his quiet leadership and precise passing that benefited teammates like Mata himself.
"In the dressing room, he was an example for all of us: his character and his professionalism," Mata stated. "And again, I said it, he’s a very intelligent guy that loves the game and I’m very happy that he’s getting the results that the club need."
Growing Momentum for Carrick's Permanent Appointment
Carrick's success has intensified calls for him to be offered the full-time managerial role in the summer. Initially, high-profile names such as Thomas Tuchel, Roberto De Zerbi, Carlo Ancelotti, and Oliver Glasner were linked to the position. However, Carrick's ability to steer United to an unbeaten record in 2026, placing them three points ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool, has shifted the narrative.
Under Carrick, Manchester United has become the only Premier League side unbeaten in 2026, raising questions about their potential to finish in the top three and secure Champions League qualification. This performance has fueled speculation that the club might opt for an internal promotion rather than seeking an external candidate.
Diverging Opinions Among Former Teammates
Not all former United players share Mata's unreserved support. Gary Neville, while expressing affection for Carrick, has voiced concerns about his inexperience. Neville pointed to the precedent set by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, another ex-player whose permanent appointment ultimately did not yield long-term success.
"I’m not against him being appointed, I love him to bits," Neville commented on Sky Sports. "But I think Manchester United should go for the best class of manager available. They’ve had young and inexperienced managers in the last two picks. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has come in before as an ex-player and that didn’t work in the end."
Neville suggested that if Carrick leads United to Champions League qualification, there will be significant pressure to appoint him permanently. He also noted that Tuchel's recent contract extension with England reduces external options, potentially benefiting Carrick's chances.
The Road Ahead for Manchester United
As the season progresses, the debate over Carrick's future will likely intensify. His immediate focus remains on maintaining United's winning momentum, with key matches against Crystal Palace and other rivals on the horizon. The club's hierarchy faces a critical decision: whether to reward Carrick's interim success with a permanent role or pursue a more established manager to ensure long-term stability.
Juan Mata's endorsement adds weight to Carrick's candidacy, emphasizing the respect he commands within the football community. Whether this translates into a formal appointment will depend on United's final league position and the broader strategic vision of the club's leadership.
