EXCLUSIVE Manchester Untied have been told they could do a lot worse than signing interim boss Michael Carrick on a full-time basis in the summer
12:30, 14 Feb 2026
Michael Carrick
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Man Utd's form has improved under Michael Carrick(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United have been told they could do worse than bringing in Michael Carrick on a full-time basis after he made a major change at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils dropped points for the first time in four games on Tuesday evening - but remain undefeated since he was brought into the club on an interim basis. And Michael Owen reckons he could be a candidate for the role in the summer.
Speaking to Daily Star Sport, via casino.org, Owen said: "Players are playing in the right position and with confidence. Bruno Fernandes is playing further forward and playing very well...
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Benjamin Sesko of Manchester United celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammates during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
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Manchester United are looking likely for a Champions League spot(Image: Gareth Copley, Getty Images)
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"Carrick couldn’t really have done any better could he? It was only a few weeks ago I was with Michael doing broadcast work and he didn’t seem in any rush to get back into a job, but I guess when Manchester United come calling, you definitely can’t say no to that.
"I believe Man Utd will do the right thing, not make a knee jerk reaction, but take their time as the months go on, so not automatically give him the job full time tomorrow."
However, Owen noted that if he does qualify for the Champions League - it will be hard to make a different appointment. He added: I’ve seen many people say you can’t give Michael Carrick the job regardless, but I can’t disagree more.
Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, celebrates victory during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on February 07, 2026 in Manchester, England.
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Michael Carrick has been appointed on an interim basis(Image: Carl Recine, Getty Images)
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"United have tried absolutely everything over the past decade. Proven Managers, experienced managers, ex players, new kids on the block, the latest top coaches from Europe.
"And the one manager that all of a sudden that is getting a tune out the players, the crowd are buzzing, the confidence is flowing, seems a stability, has the right demeanour, he gets the club, a proper guy, done it the tough way as well.
"Imagine if he qualifies for the Champions League and the board say thanks for the job Michael and now we’re going to employ someone different and then United go back to what has been happening the last 10-12 years.
"I mean talk about shooting yourself in the foot, he is there, under your nose and Michael won’t thank me for saying this, he is the perfect option, he will come cheap, the club don’t need to buy the manager out of a contract.
"Finances also aren’t excellent at the club, so here is a guy who understands the club, lives locally, family in the area, no problem with anything, speaks the language and you can get him for a fraction of a price that many other managers."
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The Red Devils have some extra time to recuperate after their draw to West Ham, after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by Brighton last month, and prepare for their upcoming clash with Everton.
Carrick's side are currently fourth in the table, and looking more and more likely to secure Champions League football next season - after spending a season away from the continent following 2024/25's disastrous campaign.