Manchester United have decided to appoint Michael Carrick as caretaker manager—after some key players rejected the return of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Carrick will take charge until the end of the season, marking his second stint leading the team. Solskjaer was once the favorite to replace the sacked Ruben Amorim and even attended two job interviews.
However, he ultimately missed out because some players told the club’s hierarchy they did not want Solskjaer back. It is understood that the players clearly stated they lacked confidence in him and would rather have Carrick guide them through the remainder of the campaign.
Manchester United legend Solskjaer managed the club from 2018 to 2021, recording a 54% win rate across 168 matches before being dismissed. Carrick’s appointment is expected to be finalized within the next 24 hours, led by Chief Executive Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox. The 44-year-old is set to take his first training session on Wednesday, preparing for the crucial clash against local rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford this weekend.
This will be a stern test for Carrick—United have claimed just one win in their last seven games across all competitions. Following Solskjaer’s sacking previously, Carrick served as interim boss for three matches, securing two wins and one draw before departing when Ralf Rangnick took over as caretaker manager. He has been out of work since being sacked by Championship side Middlesbrough last June.
Carrick led Middlesbrough to the Championship play-offs in the 2022-23 season, only to suffer a narrow semi-final defeat against Coventry City. His team then missed out on the top six by slim margins in two consecutive seasons, which led to his dismissal.
The former England midfielder made 464 appearances for Manchester United, lifting 18 major trophies including the 2008 UEFA Champions League title. He retired at the end of the 2017-18 season and immediately joined Jose Mourinho’s coaching staff at the club.
After Mourinho was sacked, Carrick remained as a first-team coach throughout Solskjaer’s 168-match tenure in charge.
