Michael Carrick was officially inducted on Tuesday night as interim Man Utd coach. Darren Fletcher had been given the chance to lead the club for two games, now it was time for Carrick or Solskjaer to step in. It ended with Solskjaer’s former assistants, even though “our man” was until a few days ago reported as the favorite for the job.
On Tuesday, it was confirmed that United had appointed Michael Carrick as manager for the remainder of the 25/26 season.
A club statement read: “Manchester United are delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Carrick as head coach of the men’s first team for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. Carrick made 464 appearances for the club, winning five Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
“He became part of the first-team coaching staff when he retired in 2018, serving under José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. After Solskjaer’s departure, Carrick led the club with distinction in his role as interim manager. The former England international was head coach of Middlesbrough for two and a half years from October 2022.”
Prior to Carrick’s appointment, it was reported that Solskjaer was also involved in the process, but the club chose the English candidate.
According to The Athletic, Solskjaer was ‘naturally disappointed’ after being told he would not be hired.
However, it is claimed that the Norwegian wanted the job permanently, aiming for a long-term project rather than just the rest of the current season. They also stated that Solskjaer is ‘fully supportive of Carrick’. Something that fits with who we know who Ole Gunnar Solskjær is and what he has said in the past.
Back in 2023, Solskjaer told The Athletic that ‘Carrick would be the manager of Manchester United if he wanted it’.
Carrick will be joined on the bench by Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans and Travis Binnion, among others. The first game as head coach will be the derby clash against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday. We wish Carrick the best of luck on his journey!
