Michael Carrick has indicated he would be open to remaining in charge of Manchester United beyond the end of the season, admitting he feels “at home” at Old Trafford while stopping short of directly campaigning for the job.
Carrick has been in charge since January 13 following the departure of Ruben Amorim and has largely avoided public discussion about his long-term future.
However, comments made ahead of United’s upcoming fixtures suggest the interim head coach is giving thought to what comes next.
Asked about United’s summer plans and his potential involvement, Carrick stressed continuity and long-term thinking rather than short-term results.
“Nothing’s changed, to be honest,” Carrick said. “I’m fully aware of the role I’m doing here and the responsibility I’ve got.
“We want to be successful, and I want the club to be successful beyond the end of the season, if that’s me, if that’s somebody else.”
Focus beyond short-term results
Carrick noted that recent performances should not dictate strategic decisions, despite United recording three straight wins since his appointment.
“At this stage, I can’t control that and we’ll see what happens, but it’s certainly about trying to improve the team and making Manchester United stronger,” he added.
“Results over a short period of time don’t change that. If they have changed, there is something wrong. It can’t be so knee-jerk.”
While United continue their assessment process for a permanent successor, Carrick remained measured when asked whether continued positive results could strengthen his case.
“I’m loving what I’m doing. I’m here,” he said. “I feel at home here, but I fully understand the situation, so I’m not getting too carried away.”
Injury update and backroom changes
Carrick also confirmed Denmark international Patrick Dorgu could be sidelined for up to 10 weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury during the win over Arsenal last month.
In addition, he shed light on the arrival of Steve Holland as part of his coaching staff, revealing the appointment stemmed from a long-standing Football Association connection involving his brother, Graeme Carrick.
“When talks were progressing and it looked like I might be coming in, I had conversations with my brother and we ended up mentioning Steve,” Carrick explained.
“I was fully aware of his experience and quality and we clicked straight away.”
Carrick highlighted Holland’s background at Chelsea and with England as key assets, adding: “He grew up being a massive United fan, which helped to start with, but it was also being successful at Chelsea, knowing what it takes to win trophies.”
United have said they will take time over a permanent appointment, with Carrick continuing to lead the team through the remainder of the season.