Michael Carrick has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of Manchester United on a caretaker basis as the club moves to stabilise following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
Sources close to the process indicate United are working toward appointing an interim head coach before players return to training on Wednesday, with discussions with Carrick understood to be at an advanced stage.
While no final decision has been made, the former United midfielder is currently viewed as the frontrunner ahead of other internal and external options.
Interim plans take shape at Old Trafford
United relieved Amorim of his duties on January 5 after 14 months in charge, triggering another period of uncertainty at the club. Darren Fletcher was handed temporary responsibility for first-team matters in the immediate aftermath but is not expected to remain in the role.
Fletcher oversaw a Premier League draw against Burnley before United were knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton on Sunday, a result that intensified pressure on the club’s hierarchy to act fast.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who managed United between 2018 and 2021, has also held face-to-face talks with club officials over a possible short-term return.
However, Carrick is currently believed to be the preferred option as United weigh continuity against experience.
Familiar figure with mixed managerial record
Carrick previously served as United’s caretaker manager for three matches following Solskjaer’s dismissal in 2021, recording two wins and a draw before stepping aside for Ralf Rangnick’s interim spell.
The 44-year-old enjoyed a distinguished playing career at Old Trafford, making 464 appearances between 2006 and 2018 after joining from Tottenham.
Following his retirement, he joined Jose Mourinho’s coaching staff and later remained part of Solskjaer’s backroom team.
Carrick’s only permanent managerial role came at Middlesbrough, where he spent two and a half seasons in charge. He led the club to the Championship play-offs in 2022–23 but was dismissed last June after narrowly missing out on the top six in consecutive campaigns.
United are expected to confirm their caretaker appointment within the next 48 hours as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures against Manchester City and Arsenal.
