Michael Carrick recommended for appointment by executives to Ratcliffe

TL;DR

Michael Carrick is recommended for a permanent managerial position at Manchester United by club executives to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. He has been interim manager since January, leading the team to significant victories and UEFA Champions League qualification.

Key points

Michael Carrick recommended for permanent appointment
Recommendation made to Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Carrick led Manchester United to 10 wins in 15 matches
Other candidates included Unai Emery and Andoni Iraola
Manchester United secured UEFA Champions League qualification

Mentioned in this story

Michael CarrickManchester UnitedAston VillaBournemouthUnai EmeryAndoni IraolaSir Jim RatcliffeOmar BerradaJason Wilcox

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - MAY 09: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, acknowledges the fans following the Premier League match between Sunderland and Manchester United at Stadium of Light on May 09, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) | Getty Images Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick could be set for the permanent appointment at the club after a recommendation by club executives to minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe. According to a report by The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, the former United midfielder and assistant manager is the top choice by chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox after evaluating options. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery and outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola were both major candidates explored, but Carrick is now seen as the preferred option. It was widely reported that a decision would be unlikely before the end of the season, but matters changed with the early qualification for Europe. Last season the board was eager to get started on transfers before the window opened in July, and that appears to be the case again with a World Cup set to interrupt any proceedings on big targets. Elliot Anderson and in particular have been heavily linked with United and are set to feature for England and Portugal, respectively. Carrick was appointed interim boss in January with a loaded first week in charge. He led the Reds to wins over and in his first two matches in charge, and would guide United to 10 wins in 15 matches to secure UEFA Champions League football next season.

Q&A

Why is Michael Carrick being considered for the permanent manager role at Manchester United?

Michael Carrick is recommended for the permanent manager role due to his successful interim tenure, including 10 wins in 15 matches and securing UEFA Champions League qualification.

Who are the other candidates considered for the Manchester United manager position?

Other candidates included Aston Villa's Unai Emery and outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, but Carrick is now viewed as the preferred choice.

What impact did Carrick's management have on Manchester United's season?

Carrick's management led to crucial victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, ultimately securing UEFA Champions League football for the next season.