Is Michael Carrick the Solution for Manchester United?

It is no secret that Manchester United struggled under Ruben Amorim during his time at the club, with a win percentage of just 38%.

Amorim arrived a little over a year ago with genuine excitement and hope that he could take Manchester United back to where they believe they belong. That optimism, however, quickly faded.

United finished last season in 15th place, their worst league finish in over 50 years. Amorim departed with a record of 24 wins, 18 draws and 21 defeats, and reports suggested he had lost the dressing room towards the end of his tenure including the confidence of fan favourite Kobbie Mainoo.

That brings us to Michael Carrick.

Carrick has been appointed interim manager, a role he previously held back in 2021 following the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjær. On that occasion, he was in charge for just two matches: an away win against Villarreal in the Champions League and a memorable 3–2 victory over Arsenal at Old Trafford.

Fast forward to 2026, and Carrick finds himself back in the dugout once again, this time as caretaker until the end of the 2025/26 season. His opening fixtures could hardly have been tougher: a Manchester derby followed by an away trip to league leaders Arsenal.

Just as he did five years ago, Carrick emerged victorious in both matches, propelling United back into the top four and immediately shifting the mood around the club. Kobbie Mainoo a player who struggled under the previous regime played the full 90 minutes in both games, underlining his importance and renewed confidence under Carrick.

That leads to the inevitable question: should Manchester United consider appointing Michael Carrick permanently if this form continues?

There are several factors to weigh up. One is whether these results are simply the result of a “new manager bounce”, something United fans have seen many times before, or whether Carrick genuinely deserves the credit for the turnaround.

Another consideration is the availability of alternative candidates in the summer. Names such as Xabi Alonso, Oliver Glasner and Gareth Southgate have been mentioned. Glasner currently appears the frontrunner following his announcement that he will leave Crystal Palace at the end of the season. Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, seems unlikely due to his strong personal links with Liverpool.

Glasner’s tactical approach may suit United, particularly his use of attacking wing-backs. Players like Dorgu and Dalot could thrive in those roles.

That said, Carrick has already shown his own impact. Patrick Dorgu has been particularly effective in a more advanced role, scoring in back-to-back Premier League matches, including a superb strike against Arsenal. Unfortunately, an injury will sideline him for at least 10 weeks, but his performances highlight the attacking freedom Carrick has encouraged.

If Carrick can maintain this level of performance and guide Manchester United to a top-four finish, the club’s hierarchy should seriously consider making his appointment permanent.

His deep connection to the club, growing popularity with players and supporters, and most importantly the results, would make a compelling case.