4 May 2026 06:37 BST |
5 min read
Manchester United are ready to give Michael Carrick the role of permanent manager after the Englishman led them back into the Champions League, Fabrizio Romano reports.
While there is no guarantee that Carrick will land the role, Romano says that internally at Old Trafford, the former Middlesbrough manager is increasingly seen as the favourite for the post.
The 44-year-old has led the Red Devils back into the Champions League next season, with United securing a top-five finish on Sunday thanks to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford, during which Kobbie Mainoo snatched the decisive goal.
Carrick hot favourite for United
Romano explained on his YouTube channel: “I know you see the reports and rumours in the press in England and elsewhere saying Andoni Iraola and many other managers are candidates for the Manchester United job.
“But my message to you has always been the same. According to my understanding, Michael Carrick’s chances of staying at Manchester United and remaining as permanent manager next season are increasing week after week after week.
“And now I can add: Manchester United internally believe that Michael Carrick is the clear favourite to keep the job and to be the Manchester United manager next season.
“We are still waiting for an official decision by the club. Let’s wait. They were probably waiting for Champions League football in order to make a final decision as soon as possible.
“But Carrick remains the clear favourite. Excellent relationship with the players, excellent relationship with the board, and we can see how much they love him. That is not new.
“Soon it will be time to make a decision, but Carrick is the clear favourite to stay as Manchester United boss, despite all the other reports. Let’s wait for United to communicate what they want to do.”
What has Carrick said?
Speaking after the victory over Liverpool, Carrick refused to be drawn into the discussion over his future.
“Whatever it is going to happen is going to happen,” he explained following the Liverpool win.
“I love doing what I am doing. It feels pretty natural. To be sat in this position is a good position to be in.
“It has been a good run. We have beaten some very good teams.
“When we came in, the Champions League was a bit in the distance. We wanted to get back into Europe. To be there with three games to spare is a big achievement.
“One of the biggest things for me is trying to get the best out of players, helping people and letting them go out and perform.
“Then there is seeing this place alive and bouncing.”
Mainoo backs Carrick for job
Man Utd midfielder Mainoo has indicated that he wants Carrick to get the post on a permanent basis.
“We want to follow him. We want to die for him on the pitch. He wants us to fight, and we did that today. His confidence in not just me, but all the players – it’s huge,” he told the media after the Liverpool game.
Man Utd are next in action away to Sunderland, while they also have a home match against Nottingham Forest and a trip to Brighton left before the season ends.
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