Wayne Rooney has given his verdict on why Manchester United have improved so much under Michael Carrick after struggling for 14 months during Ruben Amorim’s reign.
Michael Carrick has turned things around at Manchester United since becoming interim head coach in January.
At the time of Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, United’s chances of Champions League qualification were remote.
Now, it looks more likely that the Red Devils will return to Europe’s most prestigious tournament, having not competed in the Champions League since 2023.
Michael Carrick signing autographs in Kildare for Manchester United fans
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
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Wayne Rooney credits Michael Carrick for simplistic approach at Man Utd
Carrick changed a lot when he returned to Old Trafford.
Amorim had insisted on implementing a back-three system at United, but one of the first switches made under Carrick saw the team revert to a more suitable back-four formation.
The 44-year-old also reintroduced Kobbie Mainoo to the line-up and pushed Bruno Fernandes further forward into his best position.
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These changes have contributed to better results for United, who are currently sitting third in the Premier League.
Former United striker Wayne Rooney claims Carrick has made United better than they were under Amorim by simplifying things.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, with darts sensation Luke Littler as the special guest, Rooney praised Carrick’s work to date.
“Michael’s character has simplified it,” Rooney said.
“I think with Amorim, the shape and different rotations and there were big gaps everywhere. United were easy to play against.
“I think Michael’s simplified it. It’s football, I’ve tried the management, but football is not that difficult in terms of it hasn’t changed that much – you know, since it was created.”
Carrick will be aiming to continue his impressive run as United head coach when Leeds come to Old Trafford on Monday night. A win would be enough to keep the Red Devils in third for another week.
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Ruben Amorim still linked with Benfica job
Ever since Amorim was sacked at United, the 41-year-old has been heavily linked with a return to Benfica, where he spent most of his playing career.
However, Jose Mourinho is the current manager of Benfica, meaning he could replace the fellow former United manager in the summer.
According to Glorioso 1904, while Mourinho remains in the hot seat at Benfica, alternatives are being discussed internally in case of an unexpected exit.
Amorim is among the possibilities given his emotional attachment to Benfica.
This sort may be worth keeping an eye on over the coming weeks. It could grow legs if Mourinho shows signs of moving on.
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