Michael Carrick is poised to become the full‑time manager of Manchester United for the upcoming campaign, a view championed by former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher. United are edging ever closer to securing a spot in next season's Champions League after a hard‑fought 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday, which tightened their grip on a qualifying position.
With just four league fixtures remaining, the Red Devils sit third in the table, enjoying an 11‑point cushion over sixth‑placed Brighton. That margin means they could mathematically guarantee European football when they host arch‑rivals Liverpool next weekend, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Since stepping into the interim role in January, Carrick has overseen an impressive run of nine wins in thirteen games. His rapid turnaround of United’s fortunes has prompted Carragher to declare that the former midfielder "will certainly be Manchester United's manager next season – there is no doubt about it, and you can't argue that he doesn't deserve the job." Carragher praised the results as "sensational," likening them to the output of a title‑contending side. "The pressure on United right now is relatively low – they aren't juggling European fixtures yet – but the quality of the performances under Carrick has been outstanding," Carragher added.
"Anyone could have struggled, but he has delivered the best possible results given the circumstances." The interim boss has also earned the admiration of his players. Former United captain Harry Maguire told Sky Sports that the team's confidence has surged under Carrick’s guidance.
"The results speak for themselves," Maguire said. "When Michael first arrived we faced two daunting games against Arsenal and Manchester City, and we managed to take six points. That gave everyone belief. We now know we can score from anywhere and we are getting better tactically, moving the ball quicker across the pitch." Maguire continued, noting a stark contrast with the previous regime under Erik ten Hag’s predecessor, Ruben Amorim.
"When Ruben was in charge, many games felt like 50/50 and we often ended up on the losing side. Now we are stronger at both ends – defensively solid and more clinical in attack." Sky Sports analyst Gary Neville echoed these sentiments on his podcast, highlighting Carrick’s ability to extract maximum performance from the squad.
"Thirty‑nine points from thirteen games is an excellent return, especially after those brilliant displays against City and Arsenal. The team has learned to grind out results even when they aren’t playing their best football, which is a hallmark of a good manager," Neville observed. Neville also pointed out Carrick’s long‑term vision. "He talks about the future of the club even if he isn’t there at the end of the season, which shows his commitment.
In the second half against Brentford he made tactical tweaks that almost sealed the win, demonstrating his adaptability and game‑management skills." Carrick himself remained modest but optimistic after the Brentford win. "It’s another three points, and we have a crucial game against Liverpool coming up.
We’ve put ourselves in a good position," he told Sky Sports. "We could have scored more, but at this stage of the season it’s all about securing results. After the Leeds defeat we’ve had two fantastic performances, and we need to keep that momentum." The Brentford match also featured a late strike from Mathias Jensen, but United held firm to preserve the win. Carrick acknowledged the need for greater attacking firepower but emphasized the importance of consistency: "It’s a result‑driven business at this point of the season.
The key is to take the points when we can." Looking ahead, United’s final two fixtures will be decisive. A win over Liverpool could clinch a Champions League berth, while a slip could open the door for rivals. Carrick’s tactical acumen, player management, and evident rapport with the squad suggest he could be the steady hand United need to finish the season strongly and embark on a new era. If Carrick is confirmed as the permanent manager, he will join a short list of former players turned coaches who have taken the reins at Old Trafford, following in the footsteps of legends like Sir Alex Ferguson and Ole Gunnar Solskjær.
His deep understanding of United’s culture, combined with the recent surge in form, provides a compelling case for his appointment. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as the season draws to a close. The blend of youthful energy, experienced heads, and Carrick’s growing tactical blueprint could well propel Manchester United back into Europe’s elite competition, setting the stage for a promising future under his leadership.