Michael Carrick is poised to become the full‑time manager of Manchester United for the upcoming campaign, according to former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher. United have inched closer to a Champions League return after a 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday, tightening their grip on a qualifying spot.
With just four league fixtures remaining, the Red Devils sit third in the table, eleven points ahead of sixth‑placed Brighton. This cushion means they could secure European qualification as early as the weekend, when they host fierce rivals Liverpool. Since taking over on an interim basis in January, Carrick has guided United to nine wins in 13 matches, a remarkable turnaround that has prompted Carragher to predict a permanent appointment.
The former midfielder’s comments on Sky Sports were unequivocal: "He’s definitely going to be Manchester United’s manager next season – there’s no doubt about it, and you can’t argue that he doesn’t deserve the role. The results have been sensational, the kind you’d expect from a title‑contending side." Carragher added that the current pressure on United is relatively low because the club is not yet juggling European fixtures, but he believes no other manager could have produced better outcomes under the same circumstances.
The former Liverpool defender also contrasted Carrick’s adaptability with that of former United boss Ralf Rangnick, noting that Carrick has shown the ability to adjust tactics swiftly. Harry Maguire, speaking to Sky Sports about Carrick’s impact, highlighted the confidence boost that the string of victories has given the squad. "The results speak for themselves," Maguire said.
"When Michael first arrived we faced two tough games against Arsenal and Manchester City, and we managed to take all six points. That gave everyone belief. We now know we can score from anywhere and we’re getting better in our shape, sliding across the pitch quicker than before." Maguire continued, pointing out the defensive improvements under Carrick’s guidance. "Previously, under Rangnick, many games felt like a 50/50 proposition that often ended in defeat.
Now we’re stronger at both ends – we defend better and we’re more clinical in attack." Former United captain Gary Neville, on his podcast, praised Carrick’s efficiency. "Since Michael arrived, United have amassed 29 points from 13 games – an outstanding record," Neville remarked.
He praised the performances against City and Arsenal, calling them "absolutely amazing" and noting that the team has learned to grind out results even when they are not playing at their peak. Neville also hinted at Carrick’s long‑term vision.
"Michael talks about the club’s future, even if he isn’t there at the end of the season. He’s already thinking beyond the immediate results, which shows his ambition and tactical acumen," he said. The former midfielder’s tactical flexibility was evident in the Brentford game.
United started the match a bit compact, but Carrick quickly tweaked the system after observing the opposition’s pressure. "If Brentford had levelled, the criticism would have been massive," Neville noted, "yet Michael adjusted on the fly and salvaged the win." Carrick himself acknowledged the importance of the Brentford win, stressing that United need to keep collecting points as the season draws to a close.
"It’s another win and we have a big game ahead against Liverpool. We’ve put ourselves in a good position, but we must stay focused," he told Sky Sports. Brentford fought back in the second half, with Mathias Jensen scoring a late goal, but United held on to preserve the three points.
Carrick admitted United could have been more clinical. "We could have scored more, but at this stage of the season it’s about results.
After the Leeds defeat we’ve delivered two fantastic performances, and that’s what matters now." Looking ahead, United’s next fixture against Liverpool offers a chance to cement their Champions League hopes. A victory would likely guarantee a return to Europe’s elite competition, something the club has not achieved since the 2016‑17 season. Beyond the immediate stakes, Carrick’s interim tenure has sparked a broader conversation about the club’s direction. Supporters and pundits alike are debating whether a former player with deep ties to the club can translate his on‑field experience into sustained managerial success.
Carrick’s early record suggests he can, but the true test will come in the final stretch of the Premier League and any potential cup runs. If United secure qualification and Carrick receives the permanent role, it would mark a rare instance of a club promoting an interim coach to the top job based on short‑term results. Historically, such promotions have been mixed – some have flourished, while others have faltered under the weight of expectation. Regardless of the outcome, the narrative surrounding Manchester United this season is one of resurgence, tactical evolution, and renewed optimism.
Carrick’s influence has already reshaped the squad’s mentality, and if he continues to deliver points, the Red Devils could well be on the path back to the summit of English football. For fans following the developments, Sky Sports will continue to provide live coverage, analysis, and exclusive interviews, ensuring that the story of Carrick’s rise remains front and centre in the football world.