Rio Ferdinand has stated that Michael Carrick has 'earned the right' to become the permanent manager of Manchester United, but he would prefer Luis Enrique if the opportunity arose. Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim in January, with the club in seventh place in the Premier League and morale at a low point.
Carrick's Impressive Interim Tenure
The 44-year-old former midfielder enjoyed a remarkable start, leading United on a seven-match unbeaten streak, including victories over Arsenal and Manchester City. Although Newcastle ended that run in March, the team bounced back against Aston Villa. A 2-1 defeat to Leeds remains a rare blemish on Carrick's record. With Champions League qualification secured, Carrick will aim to strengthen his case in the final matches against Nottingham Forest and Brighton.
Reports indicate that Old Trafford officials have been impressed, with formal discussions underway for Carrick's permanent appointment. Ferdinand, speaking to talkSPORT, believes Carrick deserves the opportunity based on his results.
'He's earned the right to get an opportunity to manage Manchester United,' Ferdinand said. 'We have to remember that Michael Carrick was brought in when Manchester United were seventh in the league. People were hoping he'd keep us out of relegation, but he's taken us to third convincingly. On merit alone, he deserves an opportunity.'
Ferdinand dismissed criticism of Carrick, noting that a draw away to Sunderland is a tough result for any team. He added: 'He's done a magnificent job, he deserves the opportunity, he deserves to get some resources put behind him in the transfer window.'
Ferdinand's Preference for Luis Enrique
Despite his support for Carrick, Ferdinand admitted that Luis Enrique would be his first choice if available. Enrique currently manages Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning Champions League winners.
'He [Carrick] would be my first choice given the lack of options around right now,' Ferdinand explained. 'The only person I would seriously consider regardless of what Carrick has done is Luis Enrique, if he came up for grabs. He's the manager of the current Champions League winners, the best team on the planet. If he's available, I don't care what Michael Carrick has done—you take him.'
Ferdinand noted that other top managers like Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel have recently committed to other roles, leaving few alternatives. He urged fans to support Carrick: 'Just get behind the guy, he's earned the right and give him a chance.'
Carrick himself has remained focused on the job, saying last month: 'There's not that much noise... It doesn't affect me one bit. I'm doing the best I can, loving it, and we keep pushing for more. Whatever is going to happen is going to happen.'
