Manchester United's Shocking Choice: How Michael Carrick Beat Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to the Hot Seat
Michael Carrick earned the opportunity to serve as Manchester United's interim manager through the end of the 2025–26 campaign based on his qualifications, though his willingness to forgo long-term contract guarantees—reportedly sought by Ole Gunnar Solskjær—seems to have enhanced his candidacy.
One account praised this short-term approach as evidence of how Carrick "handled the situation brilliantly" throughout the recent selection process.
Following Ruben Amorim's unexpected departure last week, Darren Fletcher was quickly elevated from the Under-18s to manage United's upcoming matches against Burnley and Brighton & Hove Albion. As the former Scotland international struggled to secure victories in both fixtures, United's football director Jason Wilcox began searching for a more permanent interim solution to guide the team through season's end.
This search rapidly identified Carrick, Solskjær and Ruud van Nistelrooy as the primary contenders. The former Netherlands forward was soon eliminated from consideration, leaving United to choose between two players from distinct yet equally triumphant periods of Sir Alex Ferguson's legendary tenure.
Tuesday's announcement, eight days following Amorim's exit, confirmed that Carrick had outmaneuvered his friend and former teammate to claim the Old Trafford position, an outcome that had seemed improbable during this period of uncertainty.
Various accounts of the selection process reveal how Carrick's compelling personality, Ferguson's endorsement, and an ill-timed illness all contributed to this appointment.
Circumstances Work Against Solskjær
Circumstances Work Against Solskjær
Carrick's numerous strengths deserve recognition. The respected former midfielder reportedly impressed Wilcox with his leadership capabilities and collaborative spirit during his face-to-face interview last Thursday, according to the Daily Mail.
Carrick's strategic vision for the remaining season is also characterized as "compelling," alongside his "passion" for the position and familiarity with United's current roster.
Nevertheless, Carrick's priority in the interview schedule appears to have been advantageous. The same source suggests that momentum was "already building strongly toward Carrick" before Solskjær's individual meeting on Saturday.
Solskjær's interview had to be postponed to the weekend after he developed "flu symptoms" on Wednesday, as reported by The Athletic.
The Norwegian's health wasn't his only obstacle. United's leadership were reportedly "concerned" by initial media coverage positioning Solskjær as the leading candidate, generating enthusiasm reminiscent of his first interim appointment in 2018 that eventually pressured the club into offering him a permanent role. While there's no indication the 52-year-old orchestrated this coverage, it nonetheless hindered his chances.
Recollections of Solskjær's previous tenure's conclusion—with the manager emotional after a 4–1 defeat at Watford following repeated struggles against teams that neutralized United's counter-attacking style—are also believed to have influenced Wilcox's decision.
Contract Security Discussions
Contract Security Discussions
During Solskjær's discussion with Wilcox, Sky Sports News reports that the former full-time manager inquired about prospects beyond the current campaign.
Should he replicate the success of his initial caretaker period—specifically, achieving the club's Champions League qualification objectives—Solskjær reportedly sought assurances that his tenure would continue. A contractual provision is said to have been proposed.
Carrick made no such requests, which largely explains why the same report suggests he "navigated the process exceptionally well."
Staff Selections Following the Selection
Staff Selections Following the Selection
The composition of Solskjær's coaching staff presented another challenge. After it became apparent that Carrick—his assistant during his first Old Trafford tenure—wasn't interested in resuming that position, the former Molde manager's support network appeared inadequate.
Carrick not only had potential assistants identified whom Wilcox knew well—Jonathan Woodgate spent four seasons alongside the former midfielder at Leeds United—but was also open to guidance regarding his other appointments.
The recruitment of Steve Holland, a seasoned former assistant at Chelsea and with England's national team, is characterized as a decision made by Carrick and Wilcox "in partnership."
Key Endorsements
Key Endorsements
Several sources indicate that Ferguson, the influential presence still connected to the club—according to Roy Keane's perspective—was asked which of his former players he would recommend. Carrick received his endorsement.
Solskjær, meanwhile, reportedly believed he had the backing of Wilcox and United's CEO Omar Berrada, though perhaps lacking support from the ownership structure: the Glazer family and Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ultimately, Wilcox will receive recognition for Carrick's appointment. Following the significant setback of Amorim's tenure, the football director can only hope for improved results from his latest selection.