Michael Carrick may be Manchester United’s head coach on an interim basis, but the 44-year-old admits he has been involved in planning for the club’s future.
It has been a big week at Manchester United in terms of announcements.
United announced pre-season arrangements and Harry Maguire’s new contract while in the Republic of Ireland on a four-day midseason training camp.
The Red Devils will remain in Europe for pre-season and Maguire’s contract doesn’t expire until 2027, with the option for an additional year.
Michael Carrick training the team in Ireland
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Michael Carrick assists Man Utd’s plans for the future
United have arranged six pre-season friendlies ahead of the summer, including a historic match at Croke Park in Dublin.
On top of that, Maguire’s future has been solved, but it may come as a surprise to some that these decisions have been settled without knowing for certain who will be the head coach next season.
Carrick is making a strong case for himself as United continue to push for a Champions League spot, but reports suggest Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann is keen for talks about the job.
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However, in what could be considered a hint that Carrick will remain in charge, he admits to helping with the club’s planning going forward, as the summer’s pre-season schedule has been announced.
“Certainly in the role I’m in, those decisions need to be taken care of,” Carrick told reporters at his press conference on Saturday.
“I said it as soon as I came here, whatever it looks like moving forward, I’m part of that to try and improve things. Make things better all the time.
“So, yeah, there are conversations and different directions. I’m definitely part of it. It should be that way anyway because things need doing. I’m here to take care of that.”
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Michael Carrick not leaning on Jonathan Woodgate’s insight into rivalry
Former Leeds defender Jonathan Woodgate joined Carrick’s coaching team in January.
Not a popular figure among United fans during his playing career, Woodgate has done his reputation no harm by joining forces with Carrick because the results have been positive.
Carrick was asked if Woodgate had helped the players by explaining the rivalry to them.
“Not loads, actually,” he added.
“Not loads, actually. I think we’re all aware of what the game means to the football club, to the supporters. And, yeah, just kind of repeating what I’m saying.
“I think it’s something you’ve got to thrive on and understand when you play certain games what it means for the wider picture. It’s for so many people in different ways.
“Sometimes it’s what you’d call a normal game, sometimes it’s a little bit of a twist to it, and this is certainly one of them.”
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