Michael Carrick takes charge as Manchester United coach for the rest of the season

January 14, 2026: There were many rumours about who would sit in the dugout at Old Trafford after the end of the Ruben Amorim era. Now the situation is clear. Manchester United have reached an agreement with club legend Michael Carrick. The 44-year-old former midfielder will work as interim head coach until the end of the 2025–26 season.

There were reports that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could return for a second spell as manager. However, United decided to give the coaching role to Carrick instead of the Norwegian legend. If all goes as planned, Carrick will be in charge for the high-profile derby against Manchester City next Saturday.

According to a report from The Athletic, a principle agreement has already been reached between Manchester United and Carrick. As part of the deal, Carrick will be allowed to choose his own coaching staff. Only the final contract details remain to be completed. Club officials are confident everything will be finalised before the match against Manchester City.

Carrick handed interim role after Amorim’s exit

Amorim was sacked on January 5, and Manchester United have been searching for a new manager since then. Club chief executive Omar Berada and director of football Jason Wilcox spoke directly with several coaches during the process. In the end, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, head of club owners INEOS, approved the appointment of Michael Carrick. Darren Fletcher, who had been in temporary charge after Amorim’s departure, will now step aside.

Carrick’s experience as player and coach

Carrick enjoyed an outstanding career as a Manchester United player. He made 464 appearances for the club over 12 years, winning five Premier League titles and one Champions League trophy. He also has strong coaching experience. Carrick worked as an assistant coach under José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. After Solskjaer left in 2021, Carrick took charge of three matches and won two of them. He later proved his ability as a manager while coaching Middlesbrough.

Carrick has also received support from former teammates. Ex-striker Michael Owen recently praised him, saying his experience and deep understanding of Manchester United’s culture would benefit the club. Club legend Wayne Rooney has also said he would be open to working with Carrick again if the chance arose.

Tough start ahead for Carrick

Carrick takes charge at a difficult time for Manchester United. The team failed to deliver strong results in the last two matches under Darren Fletcher. They drew against relegation-threatened Burnley and were knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton. The club is currently going through one of its toughest periods in 111 years.

Carrick’s first match in charge will be against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. United will then face league leaders Arsenal on January 25. The Red Devils are currently seventh in the Premier League and sit three points outside the Champions League places.

Whether Manchester United can turn things around under Carrick remains to be seen.

(Image Source -NDTV)