Manchester United are already planning for the start of next season as they continue their search for a permanent head coach following Ruben Amorim's sacking earlier this month
Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick could be in the running to become Manchester United's permanent head coach (Image: Getty Images)
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The new permanent head coach of Manchester United could potentially oversee his inaugural match in Helsinki, as the club continues to prepare for the upcoming season. Despite the impressive impact of interim boss Michael Carrick so far, the Reds are still searching for a permanent head coach.
Former United midfielder Carrick stepped in to replace Ruben Amorim until the end of the season earlier this month and has made a strong impression with victories over Manchester City and Arsenal. However, the plan – for now – is for Carrick to step down before the 2026/27 season commences.
Even though a successor has not yet been identified, preparations for the next season are already underway. As reported by The Sun, United's executives are planning to schedule pre-season matches in both Helsinki and Gothenburg.
Discussions are ongoing, but plans appear to be nearing completion. United typically embark on a profitable pre-season tour of the USA, but with the World Cup taking place in the country, as well as Mexico and Canada, it seems the itinerary has been altered.
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Assuming everything goes according to plan, these matches could provide the first opportunity for the new permanent United head coach to assess their team.
Scandinavia is not unfamiliar territory for the Reds, having started their pre-season schedule there against Leeds United last season, and previously facing Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray in Gothenburg in 2016.
With the pre-season schedule beginning to take form, United will undoubtedly be focused on ending the current season on a high note. The Reds are positioned fourth in the league standings going into this weekend's fixture against Fulham.
Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick has defeated Manchester City and Arsenal in his first two games in charge(Image: Offside via Getty Images)
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Carrick has been informed that securing Champions League qualification is the club's objective between now and May. When questioned about his experience in the role thus far, he said: "I'm enjoying it.
"It's a fantastic position to be in. What happens next: I'm not going to be answering it every week. I'm enjoying it and I'll continue to do what I can."
Meanwhile, centre-back Harry Maguire heaped praise on Carrick and his contributions following the victory over Arsenal.
The centre-back said: "Michael's come in, he's been brilliant with us, he's brought a fresh energy, the group's really galvanised."
Despite Carrick's accomplished tenure to date, several prominent managers have been linked with the position. England manager Thomas Tuchel features on the club's shortlist alongside Mauricio Pochettino and Carlo Ancelotti.