MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 17: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United celebrates after the Premier League match betwee
Michael Carrick impressed INEOS in meetings (Image: Getty Images)
When Michael Carrick met with Manchester United's ownership last week, he presented his blueprint for restoring the team's winning ways. It was a comprehensive plan outlining the methods he believed would give United the greatest opportunity to secure results. Joel and Avi Glazer, alongside Sir Jim Ratcliffe, were reportedly captivated by Carrick's presentation.
The executive summit had been scheduled to occur in Monaco. However, Carrick declined the trip to the French Riviera, insisting he had crucial duties on the training ground. He informed his superiors that he would implement a fresh approach to preparation and match readiness. His philosophy centred on prioritising excellence over volume. The former midfielder emphasised how communication and brutal honesty, regardless of how uncomfortable it might prove, held equal value to ball work during training sessions.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Man Utd news Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Club insiders maintain that Ratcliffe was struck by the "calm and intelligent demeanour" of his new caretaker boss. Carrick anticipated a surge in motivation and vigour from his players following his return to Old Trafford. He recognised that a fresh, albeit recognisable face would provide the squad with renewed impetus.
However, he consulted with assistant Steve Holland prior to the opening training session, emphasising the critical need to maximise this upturn in morale. Meanwhile, Harry Maguire has emphasised to his team-mates how United have brought back someone with the club's values coursing through his veins.
Carrick has granted Holland complete autonomy to devise training sessions and lead them at Carrington. Gareth Southgate afforded him identical responsibilities during his tenure as England boss.
It proved successful for him - and Carrick believes there's no reason why it can't work equally well for himself. Whilst Carrick retains overall control and holds the deciding vote on squad matters, he's sufficiently modest to defer to Holland's substantially greater coaching expertise. Training sessions are briefer and more demanding.
The squad has responded positively to the meticulous approach. Carrick has also urged the players not to rush off from the training complex when the day concludes. He's keen for bonds to develop and strengthen.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 17: Michael Carrick, caretaker head coach of Manchester United, issues instructions to Patrick Dor
Michael Carrick started his caretaker stint with a win against Manchester City (Image: Getty Images)
And he wants to observe first-hand which partnerships thrive, and which don't. He's made abundantly clear how being a United employee, never mind a handsomely remunerated player, ought always to be viewed as amongst football's greatest honours.
Carrick has made it his business to speak with particular individuals whose prospects appeared uncertain. Kobbie Mainoo, Patrick Dorgu and Joshua Zirkzee have all been instructed to concentrate on United and what lies immediately ahead.
Prior to home fixtures, United will now reach Old Trafford later than during Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim's reigns. Carrick desires his squad to receive the warmest possible reception, whilst also encouraging player interaction with fans following matches.
Additionally, he seeks to reduce the time his players spend waiting around before kick-off. Amorim would dismiss his players after games with minimal feedback. However, Carrick, following his debut match in charge which witnessed United demolish Manchester City at Old Trafford, has adopted a contrasting approach.
Regardless of the result, nobody departs the home changing room without feeling valued. Carrick has also made appearances at youth matches. He understands his behaviour sets the standard. His willingness to undertake tasks that some predecessors avoided (though Amorim did participate) demonstrates his commitment to the cause.
Carrick's comeback has coincided with United becoming embroiled in an ongoing controversy regarding the worth and character of pundit criticism directed at them, particularly from former players.
The situation has become poisonous, yet Carrick has declined to engage, emphasising to his players and coaching team that there are far more urgent - and significant - issues to address. Without European competition to consider, Carrick recognises he has additional time to devise remedies.
Nevertheless, even should he secure a favourable outcome at Arsenal this weekend, his philosophy will remain unchanged. One victory does not guarantee success.
A summer by which point he will have exhausted every avenue in his pursuit of securing the United manager's position permanently.