Michael Carrick has helped guide Manchester United to third place in the Premier League with five matches left to play
Michael Carrick, interim head coach of Manchester United
Michael Carrick, interim head coach of Manchester United(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Former Manchester City star Yaya Toure has explained why Michael Carrick has proved himself capable of being appointed as Manchester United boss on a long-term basis. Carrick was named by the Reds as their interim head coach until the end of the season back in January and has enjoyed a successful opening few months in charge.
Carrick has helped United climb up to third place in the Premier League table and are in a commanding position in the race to secure Champions League qualification.
United claimed a 1-0 win over Chelsea on Saturday night in the Premier League thanks to a first-half goal from Matheus Cunha, a result which saw them extend their cushion in the Champions League places to 10 points with five matches left to play.
There continues to be speculation about who could be United’s permanent manager, with the impact made by Carrick leading to rumours that the 44-year-old could get the job on a long-term basis.
Former City midfielder Toure often went head-to-head with Carrick during the pair’s playing days in the Manchester derby.
The ex-Ivory Coast international was in attendance at Stamford Bridge to watch United’s win over Chelsea, and has given his verdict on Carrick being appointed by the Old Trafford hierarchy on a permanent deal.
"Good to be back at Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea v Manchester United," Toure posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"I was watching with added interest as two young coaches I like and admire went head to head.
"Michael Carrick is doing so so well at Manchester United and has to be in with a very good chance of having the manager job permanently.
"In football we rightly talk lots about tactics, shape and systems. But I love how Michael has got the basics right.
"He's got players in their best positions and has his team enjoying their football again. He says they will play better in the future. I believe him."
United have five matches left to play in the Premier League to secure a place in next season's Champions League.
Carrick and Co. will face Brentford in the next fixture on April 27, before taking on Liverpool, Sunderland, Nottingham Forest and Brighton before the end of the campaign.