Michael Carrick has emerged as the leading candidate to be named Manchester United’s caretaker manager following the shock dismissal of Ruben Amorim in early January 2026. Across several reports from major outlets, Carrick — a former United midfielder and coach — is widely described as the front-runner in talks with United’s hierarchy as the club seeks immediate stability before players return from their mid-season break.
Carrick’s candidacy has reportedly gained traction over other familiar names linked with the interim role, including Ole Gunnar Solskjær and internal option Darren Fletcher, who has been overseeing the side since Amorim’s departure. Various betting markets and sources suggest odds have shortened dramatically in Carrick’s favour, signaling strong belief he will be confirmed imminently.
What Michael Carrick Brings to Old Trafford
Carrick’s rise to the top of the caretaker list rests on both his history with the club and his managerial experience post-playing career. A club legend as a player, with more than a decade at Old Trafford, multiple Premier League titles, and a Champions League triumph, Carrick also has coaching experience within the United set-up.
After retiring as a player, he moved into coaching at United and was part of the first-team staff under various managers. Carrick briefly stepped into the caretaker manager position once before in 2021 after Solskjær’s exit, guiding United through three matches unbeaten, including a notable victory over Arsenal.
Also Read: Manchester United Sack Ruben Amorim in Brutal Mid-Season Reset, What’s Next For the Red Devils?
His most significant managerial role came with Middlesbrough, where he was appointed head coach in 2022. Carrick initially oversaw a strong run that lifted the club into play-off contention, though subsequent seasons saw inconsistent form and ultimately his departure in 2025.
That blend of club affiliation, previous interim experience, and senior management credentials appears to have impressed the United board enough to make him the preferred choice, at least in the short term. Some reports even suggest he has “accepted all conditions” of a proposed contract and that an official announcement could come within 48 hours.
Competition and Context: Solskjær and Fletcher Still in the Frame
While Carrick is being widely reported as the favourite, the broader context of the caretaker appointment remains fluid. Ole Gunnar Solskjær, another former United figure, has been mentioned as an alternative option and continues to enjoy backing from sections of the fan base and pundits. Solskjær’s previous spell as United manager saw notable highs, including memorable unbeaten runs and a Europa League final, though it ultimately ended in dismissal amid poor results.
Current interim coach Darren Fletcher, whose younger United teams he has led in recent seasons, also remains part of the conversation, although most outlets now frame his role as temporary until a more experienced replacement arrives.
The context of United’s turbulent season adds pressure to the decision. The club sits in the mid-table on the Premier League table with its campaign already devoid of cup runs and European football, meaning the caretaker has a clear mandate: steady the ship and find quick results. That reality might be guiding the club toward a familiar face like Carrick, whose deep roots with United could help stabilise morale and identity after a fractious period.
Carrick’s potential first challenge is a high-profile Manchester derby against City, underlining the significance of the role despite its interim tag. The decision — set against a backdrop of managerial turnover and strategic uncertainty — shows how Old Trafford’s leadership is balancing nostalgia with immediate tactical needs as they navigate the rest of the 2025-26 campaign.
