Manchester United are close to appointing Michael Carrick as their permanent head coach after the former midfielder was offered a two-year deal following an impressive spell in caretaker charge.
According to ESPN, Carrick’s representatives were in Manchester this week in talks over the deal, which also includes an option for another year. The 44-year-old has emerged as United’s preferred choice Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed in January after a demanding run of results.
Carrick has overseen a dramatic improvement since taking over on a temporary basis. United were sixth in the Premier League when Amorim left, but the club climbed to third under Carrick after winning 10 of 15 league games during his tenure. With two games remaining, United are six points clear of Liverpool and have secured a return to the Champions League.
The club want to complete a deal before Sunday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford as preparations begin for a major summer rebuild.
However, Carrick remained circumspect when asked about his future at a press conference on Friday, insisting a resolution would arrive soon.
“There’s two games left, other than that there’s not much to say,” Carrick said. “The situation is quite clear for all of us. Just like in the preparation for the match.”
The former United midfielder returned to the club amid considerable uncertainty earlier this year and has since restored stability, improving both performances and results at a stage when the season appeared to be winding down.
“It’s a unique football club, a special club,” Carrick said. “I’m extremely proud to come back and be a part of it as a fan and a former player. As a pure fan, being in a position to come back and help and move forward was important.”
“Making a big step and getting back into the Champions League is good, we’re happy with the work we’ve done so far.”
Carrick’s work over the past four months has reportedly earned him the backing of chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, both of whom are in favor of making the role permanent.
Regardless of whether the deal is formally completed by Sunday, Carrick has confirmed he will address supporters after the Forest game.
“That’s important anyway – the fans are a huge part of this club,” Carrick said. “Thank you for the season and the support, the last four months for me personally. Regardless, for what we went through and for that connection. The players felt it.”
Carrick also confirmed that Casemiro has recovered from the injury that ruled him out of the Sunderland game, which could allow the Brazilian midfielder to make his farewell appearance at Old Trafford.
“I’ve met him and worked with him since I’ve been here, he’s been fantastic for us, for me personally, what he’s given us,” Carrick said. “He’s had some ups and downs over the years, but to finish that strong and see that connection with the fans is great.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
15 May 2026 21:12 IST
