National World Top Stories Update Sunday 11 January, 2026
Darren Fletcher’s days as Manchester United’s interim boss may already be numbered, according to reports.
Manchester United could confirm a new caretaker manager as early as today, with Michael Carrick now emerging as the leading candidate to take charge for the rest of the season.
Man United’s senior leadership, including director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrarda, have held talks with both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Carrick. Carrick met the pair on Thursday, while Solskjaer held discussions over the weekend at Carrington.
Manchester United has held talks with both Michael Carrick, left, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer over the job of caretaker manager.placeholder image
Manchester United has held talks with both Michael Carrick, left, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer over the job of caretaker manager. | PA Wire
According to the Daily Star, Carrick is the preferred option, and Man United want a manager in place as soon as possible to allow time to prepare for Saturday’s (January 17) Manchester derby. That could mean he is confirmed as caretaker in the next 48 hours.
Speaking after the 2-1 defeat to Brighton at the weekend, Fletcher said: “You can see that the players are fragile. They need to build themselves up because it’s up to them now. They’ve got to respond.
“Confidence is one of the most powerful things in football. When you don’t have it, you have to dig deep. You have to battle, grind, fight, work, win games, and then the confidence comes back.
“All my energy and focus has been on these two games with such a quick turnaround. It’s a massive responsibility to lead this club, and I gave it my best. I’m disappointed not to get a result.
“There were some good things. We created chances and had shots, but it wasn’t enough. I’m more disappointed than anybody because I care about the club and I want the players to do well.
“It’s not about me. My playing career is done and I was lucky to have it. This is about the players. We need to help them, the club needs to help them, and they’re going to need to help themselves too.”
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