Michael Carrick Unveils His Mission as Manchester United's Interim Boss
Michael Carrick has been given the responsibility of guiding Manchester United back into Champions League qualification during his six-month tenure as interim manager, according to recent reports.
Following the departure of Ruben Amorim earlier this month, United have placed temporary leadership of the squad under Carrick, the ex-Middlesbrough manager and beloved Old Trafford legend after spending 12 years as a player from 2006 to 2018.
Carrick's interim management contract covers 17 fixtures, starting with Saturday's Manchester derby against City. With United already eliminated from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, their attention is entirely on Premier League success.
According to The Athletic, Carrick's objective is to achieve Champions League qualification and conclude their absence from Europe's premier tournament, which has continued since their early group stage exit under Erik ten Hag in the 2023–24 campaign.
Carrick reportedly understands the weight of such ambitious targets but remains confident in his capabilities to guide United to success.
United start the Carrick period in seventh place in the Premier League table, sitting three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool. The fifth-place team maintains strong qualification prospects due to UEFA's European Performance Spots allocation, though this won't be determined until much later in the campaign.
Carrick: I Know How to Succeed at Man Utd
Carrick: I Know How to Succeed at Man Utd
Darren Fletcher, who served as interim manager before Carrick's appointment, encouraged his replacement to provide the necessary support to what he described as a "vulnerable" United team.
Carrick seems prepared for the task ahead, encouraging everyone at Old Trafford to "unite" in pursuit of the elevated performance levels demanded by supporters and club leadership alike.
"Being entrusted with leading Manchester United is a privilege," Carrick stated. "I understand what success requires here; my attention is now on assisting the players to achieve the excellence we demand at this remarkable club, which I'm certain this squad can deliver.
"I have collaborated with several of these players previously and have naturally kept close tabs on the team in recent seasons, I have complete faith in their skills, commitment and potential to thrive here.
"There remains plenty to compete for this season, we are prepared to unite everyone and provide the supporters with the displays that their unwavering loyalty merits."