Manchester United have confirmed Michael Carrick as their new caretaker manager until the end of the 2025/26 season.
The Red Devils have been searching for a new head coach after sacking Ruben Amorim last week following a turgid 14-month spell in charge at Old Trafford, where he won just 38.7% of games in all competitions.
Former midfielder Darren Fletcher was placed in temporary charge for the last two games, a draw against Burnley in the Premier League and a 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the FA Cup, and the club have now confirmed their decision on who will lead the club for the rest of the season as they look to ensure qualification for the Champions League next season.
Why Carrick Was Chosen as Man Utd Boss
Michael Carrick
Carrick, who was a player at Old Trafford for 12 seasons and captain in his final season, was sacked as Middlesbrough manager last summer following three years at Riverside, and has been out of work ever since.
But GIVEMESPORT sources understand that the 44-year-old was the unanimous choice of the Manchester United board to take on the role this season following his face-to-face interview last week.
United made the decision to sack Amorim following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road, but it's understood that the club were still reluctant to make a change in mid-season. However, poor results and an off-field fallout forced their hand. Man Utd still believe that qualification for the Champions League is possible for next season, hence their decision to change.
Jason Wilcox led the process of hiring a caretaker, rather than a permanent manager, as Manchester United believe this gives them time to run a thorough process to find a permanent coach.
Carrick's competition for the job was former teammate and ex-Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who also held face-to-face talks with the club hierarchy, as the club were looking for someone who understood Man Utd already given the limited time for acclimatisation.
The former midfielder, who previously led the team for four games after Jose Mourinho was sacked in 2018, is viewed as a leader and displayed an ability to work collaboratively, as well as showing strong knowledge of the current playing squad. It's also understood that the playing squad were in favour of his appointment.
Carrick Backroom Staff Named
Jonathan Woodgate
Carrick has also brought in his own backroom staff for the rest of the season, with former England defender Jonathan Woodgate, highly-respected coach Steve Holland, Jonny Evans and Man Utd U21's manager Travis Binnion making up his team.
It's understood that Wilcox and Carrick both had a hand in hiring Holland and Woodgate. Neither has worked with Holland before, but there is agreement his experience will prove valuable.
Darren Fletcher chose to return to the Under-18s rather than continue with the first-team, and Manchester United view him as an excellent coach, and one who impressed them during his two games in charge of the first team.
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