Michael Carrick is expected to be appointed as Manchester United interim manager within the next 48 hours as the former England midfielder returns to Old Trafford
Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick has emerged as the favourite to take over as interim manager(Image: PA)
View 2 Images
Cristiano Ronaldo has already expressed his opinion on Manchester United's managerial candidate Michael Carrick, who is now the leading contender for the interim role. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was previously considered the favourite after discussions with club officials, a move that would have marked his comeback following his sacking in 2021.
Further negotiations took place on Monday as chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox aim to finalise an appointment. Carrick seems set to clinch the position and could be announced within the next 48 hours.
The club is keen to give their new manager ample time to prepare for the derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday lunchtime. Carrick stepped up following Solskjaer's dismissal in November 2021, guiding the team to a Champions League victory in Villarreal, a home win against Arsenal, and a draw with Chelsea.
United legend Solskjaer managed the club from 2018 to 2021, ultimately being let go after winning 54 per cent of his 168 games in charge. Before Carrick's potential appointment, Ronaldo had already praised his former Red Devils' teammate.
Back in December 2021, Ronaldo posted on X: "Michael Carrick was a class act as a player and he can become a great coach as well. Nothing is impossible for this guy. Personally, I'm proud to have played with him by my side as well as with him as a manager on our bench."
Carrick has been without a club since leaving Championship outfit Middlesbrough in June. It's anticipated that he will oversee his inaugural training session on Wednesday, before the Manchester derby clash with City.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick coached Cristiano Ronaldo during his caretaker spell at Man United in 2021(Image: Getty Images)
View 2 Images
United have secured victory in just one of their previous seven fixtures across all competitions. Fletcher oversaw the 2-2 stalemate with Burnley and the 2-1 FA Cup loss to Brighton on Sunday.
He said afterwards: "I have to report tomorrow morning (Monday) to Carrington. That's all I know. So I'll find out whatever I need to find out tomorrow morning.
"I've given it my best, and ultimately, I'm disappointed to not be able to win a game or to get a result today. But I feel like there were some good things in there, created a lot of chances, shots, things like that.
"But ultimately it wasn't enough. So I am more disappointed than anybody really because I care for the club and I want the club to do well. I want the players to do well. And I tell you what, it's not about me. I've had my time as a player. It's in the bank now, it was fun. Loved every minute of that. I was very lucky."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us, and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Content Image
Content Image