Manchester United has appointed former player and coach Michael Carrick as head coach until the end of the 2025-26 season, following the sacking of Ruben Amorim. The 44-year-old steps in with the club seventh in the Premier League, three points behind fourth place, aiming for Champions League qualification. Carrick's backroom staff includes Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, and Jonny Evans.
Manchester United announced on January 13, 2026, the appointment of Michael Carrick as head coach for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. This follows the dismissal of Ruben Amorim on January 5, after 14 months marked by criticism of the club's hierarchy and underwhelming results. Carrick, a former United captain who played 464 games for the club between 2006 and 2018, winning five Premier League titles, a Champions League, and other honors, previously served as interim manager in November 2021. During that spell, he guided United to an unbeaten record in three matches: a 2-0 Champions League win at Villarreal, a 1-1 Premier League draw at Chelsea, and a 3-2 home victory over Arsenal.
The decision came after considering candidates including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ruud van Nistelrooy, with Carrick emerging as the unanimous choice due to his familiarity with the club and tactical acumen. Director of football Jason Wilcox praised Carrick, stating, "Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United." The club's target is clear: securing a top-four finish for Champions League qualification, vital for both sporting and financial reasons. United sit seventh, three points shy of fourth-placed Liverpool, with 17 league games remaining.
Carrick's backroom team features former England assistant Steve Holland, ex-Middlesbrough colleague Jonathan Woodgate, returning defender Jonny Evans, under-21s coach Travis Binnion, and goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson. This setup replaces interim boss Darren Fletcher, who oversaw a league draw at Burnley and an FA Cup third-round loss to Brighton. Fletcher returns to the under-18s, with the club expressing gratitude for his leadership.
In a statement, Carrick said, "I know what it takes to succeed here... I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here." Wayne Rooney, a United legend holidaying with Carrick in Barbados over New Year, expressed openness to joining the staff, calling it a "no-brainer" to help restore the club's identity. Carrick begins with a challenging derby against Manchester City on Saturday, followed by a trip to Arsenal.
Carrick's recent managerial experience at Middlesbrough, where he took over in October 2022 and led them to fourth in the Championship that season but finished 10th last term before his June 2025 departure, underscores his reputation for attractive football. United hope this interim role allows a smooth transition while planning a permanent hire for the summer.
