Manchester United have turned to a familiar face in a bid to salvage their season, confirming the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim head coach until the summer of 2026.
Carrick's Immediate Challenge
The 44-year-old club legend steps into the hot seat at Old Trafford following the sudden dismissal of Ruben Amorim last week. Carrick's return was confirmed on January 13, 2026, after he was selected over fellow United great Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following talks with football director Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada.
Carrick will be supported by a substantial backroom team, including Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion, Jonny Evans, and Craig Mawson. Former caretaker Darren Fletcher, who oversaw a 2-2 draw with Burnley and an FA Cup exit to Brighton, is also expected to join the staff.
A Familiar Philosophy for United
In his first statement, Carrick emphasised his understanding of the club's demands. "Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour," he said. "I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club."
Director of football Jason Wilcox endorsed the appointment, stating: "Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United. He is ready to lead our talented and determined group of players for the remainder of the season."
Carrick's immediate task is clear: secure Champions League qualification. United currently sit seventh in the Premier League, just a single point outside the top five, making the goal distinctly achievable.
Four Key Issues for the New Boss
Carrick inherits a squad with clear problems to solve. His to-do list will be lengthy, but several urgent fixes stand out.
Revitalise Benjamin Sesko: The Slovenian striker has shown flashes of talent but struggles with consistency. A change in management and style could unlock his potential.
Abandon the 3-4-3: Amorim's favoured system became a millstone. Carrick is expected to revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation, a shape he rarely deviated from at Middlesbrough and one that better suits the current United squad.
Reintegrate Kobbie Mainoo: The talented 20-year-old midfielder has endured a frustrating campaign. Carrick, a masterful midfielder in his day, is the ideal coach to restore Mainoo's confidence and provide the calm presence United have lacked.
Unleash Bruno Fernandes: Returning to a 4-2-3-1 could see the captain restored to a more advanced role. During Carrick's previous stint as assistant, Fernandes was prolific, averaging 0.81 goal contributions per game. Maximising his threat is paramount.
A Daunting Start and Long-Term Plans
Carrick's second spell as United boss begins with a brutal fixture list. His first game is the Manchester derby on Saturday, followed by a trip to league leaders Arsenal.
This interim role marks a return to the club where Carrick made 464 appearances, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League. After retiring in 2018, he served as assistant to Jose Mourinho and Solskjaer, even taking caretaker charge for three games in 2021.
United have made clear this is a short-term solution. The club plans to appoint a permanent successor to Amorim in the summer, with names like Thomas Tuchel, Oliver Glasner, and Gareth Southgate already linked. For now, the spotlight is on Carrick to steady the ship and reignite United's push for Europe.
