Informal! Michael Carrick breaks silence on secret Sir Jim Ratcliffe meeting

Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick has opened up about a private meeting with Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Carrington as the club continue its search for their next permanent manager.

Carrick has been impressive since he took over the reigns at Old Trafford, with some players eager to see him hired on a permanent basis. Ratcliffe visited the training ground for an informal chat with the former midfielder, and this has sparked wild reaction from fans.

While the INEOS chief refrained from making public guarantees regarding the long-term future of the coaching staff, his presence at the training ground underscores the hands-on approach he has taken since assuming control of football operations.

Carrick confirmed the meeting took place in a relaxed atmosphere. “We had a chat, we had a cup of tea. Casual chat, it was nice to see him showing his support,” Carrick said. “That was it. It was quite informal but it was nice to see him. As a club, we’re hugely connected all the way through. It’s a big part. I’m really conscious that’s how it should be and I am trying to do my part.”

Michael Carrick celebrates after United’s Premier League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

While speculation mounts that a permanent appointment could be announced within the next month, Carrick is refusing to put pressure on the board.

The interim boss has been clear that he is not chasing the hierarchy for a decision regarding his future. “In terms of deadline, it’s not something I’m really chasing,” he said ahead of Monday’s home fixture against Brentford. “It will become clear when it becomes clear.”

United are closing in on qualifying for Champions League next season, and victory against Brentford on Monday night would put the Red Devils in a commanding position ahead of a massive clash against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.

“It’s certainly where we want to be. We’ve had some great nights in the competition. We’re in a decent position. There is hopefully more to come and we want to keep pushing. But it just shows you how difficult it can be to live at the top,” Carrick added.

Carrick appears to be the firm favourite to lead the new era under Ratcliffe’s ownership and it’s left to see how United board will handle the situation.