Michael Carrick is poised to become Manchester United's permanent manager for the upcoming campaign, according to former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher. United have edged ever closer to a Champions League comeback after a 2-1 triumph over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday, tightening their grip on a top‑four qualifying spot.
With only four Premier League fixtures left, the Red Devils sit third in the table, sitting 11 points clear of sixth‑placed Brighton. A win against arch‑rivals Liverpool next weekend could seal their return to Europe’s elite competition.
Since stepping in as interim boss in January, Carrick has guided United to nine victories in 13 matches, a run that Carragher described as "sensational" and worthy of a full‑time appointment. The former Manchester United midfielder, who once guarded the back line for Liverpool, told Sky Sports, "He will certainly be the Manchester United manager next season – there’s no doubt about it, and you can’t argue he doesn’t deserve the role." Carragher went on to praise the results, calling them "the kind of outcomes a title‑challenging side would produce". He added that while United are not currently under the pressure of European fixtures, the consistency shown under Carrick makes a strong case for his continuation. The live Premier League table continues to reflect United's resurgence, and the club’s news and transfer updates are being closely followed by fans worldwide.
Sky Sports even offers free highlights and a dedicated app for on‑the‑go viewing. Former United captain Harry Maguire also weighed in on Sky Sports, highlighting the confidence boost the recent results have given the squad. "The results have done a lot for our belief," Maguire said.
"When Michael first arrived we faced two tough games against Arsenal and Manchester City, and we managed to secure six points. That kind of start builds massive confidence." Maguire emphasized the team's growing belief in its ability to score from any position and noted tactical improvements, such as a quicker transition across the pitch and a more cohesive defensive unit. He compared the current form to the era under former manager Rúben Amorim, stating, "Under Amorim we often ended up on the losing side of close games. Now we’re winning both boxes – defending better and being more clinical in attack." Gary Neville, speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, echoed the sentiment that Carrick is extracting the maximum from the current group.
"Twenty‑nine points from thirteen games is an excellent return," Neville said. "The performances against City and Arsenal were outstanding, and even when the team isn’t at its absolute best, they still manage to get results. That’s the mark of a good manager." Neville also highlighted Carrick’s long‑term vision, noting that the interim manager often talks about the club’s future, even if he might not be there at the season’s end. "He shows tactical flexibility, adjusting the system when needed," Neville added.
"When Brentford threatened to equalise, Carrick made quick changes that helped United hold on." Carrick himself acknowledged United's improved standing after the Brentford win, describing the result as another step toward Champions League qualification. He said, "It’s another win and we have an important game ahead of us this weekend. It’s a big match for many reasons, but we have put ourselves in a good position." Brentford fought back in the second half, with Mathias Jensen scoring late, but United held firm. Carrick admitted the team could have added more goals, yet stressed the importance of securing points at this stage of the season.
"We needed the points, especially after the Leeds defeat," he said. Overall, the consensus among pundits, former players, and the squad itself is that Carrick has revitalised United’s fortunes. His ability to adapt tactics, inspire confidence, and deliver results against top opposition has convinced many that he is the right choice to lead the club into the next season. If United can maintain this momentum against Liverpool and finish the campaign strongly, Carrick’s appointment would appear not only justified but essential for sustaining the club’s ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.