Roy Keane has admitted he hopes Michael Carrick gets the Manchester United job permanently.
However, the former Red Devils captain stands by his claim that the club can get a better manager.
Roy Keane former footballer and now TV pundit portrait before the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester United and Leicester City at Old Trafford on February 7, 2025 in Manchester, England
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Keane has made a surprise U-turn over Carrick's future as United managerCredit: Getty
Carrick was appointed as caretaker boss until the end of the season earlier this month.
The former midfielder returned to Old Trafford to take over from Darren Fletcher following Ruben Amorim's sacking.
Since arriving, Carrick has won each of his first two matches by beating Manchester City and Arsenal.
His impressive start has raised suggestions United could keep him in charge beyond the end of the season.
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Roy Keane makes surprise U-turn on Michael Carrick
Keane initially dismissed those claims, labelling them 'silly' following Sunday's win over the Gunners.
However, he has now appeared to weaken his stance on not offering Carrick the role on a long-term basis.
Keane on Carrick's future
Appearing on the latest episode of the Stick To Football podcast, Keane was asked if Carrick should get the job if results continue and United qualify for the Champions League.
In response, he admitted: "I think they will continue and they will get top four."
The seven-time Premier League champion continued: "I hope they give it to him, I hope they give it to him in the summer.
"I don’t think it’s the right decision, good luck with it. I’m sticking to my guns, I’ve said my piece.
Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United celebrates after winning the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2026 in London, England.
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Carrick should get the United job full-time if he finishes in the top four, says KeaneCredit: Getty
"I think he’s got the job and if he gets it in the summer, you go ‘listen, good luck to him’.
"But as a caretaker manager, it’s a different animal to being a manager of United trying to win league titles over the next two, three, four, five years whatever it might be.
"I think you can get a better manager than Carrick, absolutely, but I think he’s doing a good job.
"Perfect timing for him and even if he doesn’t get the United job, these results are a bit like Ruud (van Nistelrooy) and he can get another job. He’ll probably get a Premiership manager (job).
"But just because you’re doing well at United, doesn’t mean he’ll do well at another club. He’s got the players back, it’s all been sliding doors moments. Great for him and he’s taken advantage of it."
Ruud van Nistelrooy won three of his four matches as United caretaker boss last season, ending his tenure unbeaten.
Manchester United Head Coach / Manager Michael Carrick reacts to Casemiro of Manchester United at the end of the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2026 in London, United Kingdom.
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United have beaten City and Arsenal in their first two matches under CarrickCredit: Getty
The Dutchman was subsequently appointed Leicester manager but failed to avoid relegation and was sacked by the Foxes in the summer.
United are set to end their campaign in the mix for a top four finish as they eye a return to the Champions League.
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Last weekend's win over Arsenal saw the Red Devils move into fourth, where they are a point ahead of Chelsea.
Carrick can continue his winning start at home to Fulham on Sunday afternoon.