Michael Owen Blasts 'Stupid' Take on Carrick's Manchester United Future
Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen has voiced his utter disbelief at the critical stance taken by club legends Gary Neville and Roy Keane regarding Michael Carrick's potential permanent appointment as manager. Owen labeled their opinion as "stupid" and expressed being "astounded" by their reluctance to endorse Carrick for the role beyond this season.
Carrick's Impressive Interim Tenure
Since taking over as interim manager in January 2026, following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim and a brief caretaker spell by Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround at Manchester United. Under his guidance, the team has suffered only one defeat in ten matches, propelling them to third place in the Premier League table. They currently hold a six-point advantage over Liverpool in fifth, positioning them strongly for a return to the Champions League.
This resurgence has seen performances and results improve significantly, with players showcasing some of their best form in years. Despite this success, Neville and Keane initially argued that Carrick lacked the experience and profile required for the permanent position, advocating instead for a more established manager.
Owen's Forceful Rebuttal
In a passionate interview with the Manchester Evening News, via Casino.org, Owen firmly supported Carrick's continuation. "I'd be firmly in the camp of Carrick keeping the job," he stated. "They have tried virtually everything. And after a dozen years of trying and failing, you land on somebody that's getting a tune out of the players, they're winning games and looking progressive."
Owen questioned the logic of dismissing Carrick, emphasizing the risks involved. "Imagine if you got rid of Michael Carrick, just imagine it, and you brought in whoever, I don't care who it is, a born winner, they've already had that type of manager. Imagine if things start going poorly again. I mean, the ownership would get absolutely lynched."
He further argued that appointing Carrick on a short-term contract poses minimal risk. "What's the worst that can happen? You give him a couple of years' contract, what's the worst that can happen? He starts the next season for the first three or four months, he loses every game and he's useless. You can part company. It's not like you've got to stick with someone for 10 years."
Owen highlighted the team's exceptional form under Carrick, noting that if the league had started when he took over, Manchester United would be at the top. "This is absolutely unbelievable what we're seeing from Manchester United. I mean, what on Earth? Why on Earth is this even a question? I don't get it. I'm astounded by certain people saying 'No, no, no, they shouldn't appoint him', astounded."
Shifting Perspectives and Club Stance
Initially, Neville was unequivocal in his opposition, stating on the Stick to Football podcast, "There cannot be any consideration that Michael takes the job beyond this season, for Michael and for the club." Similarly, Keane doubted Carrick's readiness, citing a lack of experience and football knowledge.
However, Neville has since acknowledged Carrick's strong position, telling Sky Sports, "The run they have been on has been a shock to everybody. Michael would not have expected this in his wildest dreams. He is in the box seat for the job. Looking at what is happening now, I think they will qualify for the Champions League."
Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has praised Carrick's "excellent job," and reports indicate that the club has not contacted any other potential candidates. It appears increasingly likely that if Carrick secures Champions League qualification, he will be offered the managerial role on a long-term basis, marking a potential new chapter for Manchester United under his leadership.
