Manchester United Confirm Michael Carrick As New Manager

Manchester United have confirmed Michael Carrick as the club new head coach on a deal until the end of the season.

The former Red Devils midfielder, club captain and first-team coach returns to Old Trafford after Ruben Amorim was sacked last Monday following an acrimonious end to 14 underwhelming months in charge.

Carrick won the race to be United’s new coach ahead of ex-boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had also been in talks with chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox about the role.

The 44-year-old briefly stepped in as caretaker manager after the Norwegian was sacked in November 2021 and starts his second stint in the hotseat with Saturday’s derby clash against Manchester City at Old Trafford.

Head Coach Michael Carrick of Manchester United poses at Carrington Training Ground on January 13, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

“I know what it takes to succeed here,” said Carrick, who made 464 appearances for the club.

“My focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing.

“I have worked with a number of the players already and have obviously continued to watch the team closely in recent years, I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here.

“There is still a lot to fight for this season, we are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”

Carrick will be assisted by former England No.2 Steve Holland as well as Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion and Jonny Evans.

Darren Fletcher, caretaker for the last two games, has decided to return to leading the club’s under-18s.