Man United confirm Michael Carrick as permanent manager
Carrick was appointed in January on an interim basis but has performed far beyond expectations to earn a permanent contract at Old Trafford
Manchester United have appointed Michael Carrick as head coach on an initial two-year deal. The 44-year-old won over the United hierarchy during a four-month spell in interim charge during which his side took the most points in the Premier League . United were sixth when Ruben Amorim was sacked but Carrick has guaranteed a third-place finish, leading director of football Jason Wilcox to recommend appointing him, which chief executive Omar Berrada and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe agreed with.
United considered other managers in their process of looking for Amorim’s long-term successor but Carrick impressed not just with his results but with the calm way he did the job, his long-term perspective and his interest in the academy. Michael Carrick will be kept on as Man United manager (PA) Carrick’s side beat Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa in his time in charge, strengthening his case to remain at the helm. His backroom staff is set to be confirmed but Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate and Jonny Evans are expected to be involved.
Carrick said: “From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. “Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride. Throughout the past five months, this group of players have shown they can reach the standards of resilience, togetherness and determination that we demand here.
“Now it’s time to move forward together again, with ambition and a clear sense of purpose. Manchester United and our incredible supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again. ” Wilcox added: “Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men’s team.