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 are edging ever closer to a return to the Champions League after solidifying a qualifying spot with a 2‑1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday. With only four Premier League fixtures remaining, the Red Devils sit third in the table, sitting eleven points clear of sixth‑placed Brighton.
The gap makes it highly probable that United will secure European qualification when they host Liverpool next weekend, a match that could seal their Champions League comeback. Since stepping in as interim boss in January, Carrick has guided United to nine wins in thirteen outings, a run that has impressed pundits and supporters alike. Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, was unequivocal: “He will be the Manchester United manager next season, no doubt about it – and you can’t say he doesn’t deserve it.” The former midfielder’s comments highlighted the "sensational" nature of the results, likening them to the standards of a title‑contending side.
Carragher continued, noting that while United are not currently burdened by European fixtures, the pressure will inevitably mount as the season draws to a close. Nevertheless, he argued that no other manager could have delivered a better points haul in the same timeframe.
The interim coach’s impact has been echoed by senior players. Harry Maguire, speaking to Sky Sports, praised Carrick’s early influence, especially after two daunting fixtures against Arsenal and Manchester City.
"Those six points gave us a massive confidence boost," Maguire said. He added that the squad now believes it can score from any area of the pitch and that there is still room for improvement in the team's shape and transition speed. Maguire also contrasted Carrick’s tenure with that of former manager Rúben Amorim, asserting that the Portuguese struggled to adapt, whereas Carrick has shown flexibility and tactical awareness. "When Rúben was in charge, many games felt like 50/50 and we often ended up on the losing side.
Now we’re stronger at both ends – defending better and being more clinical in attack," the defender explained. Sky Sports analyst Gary Neville, on his podcast, echoed the sentiment that Carrick is extracting the maximum from the existing squad.
"Twenty‑nine points from thirteen games is an outstanding record," Neville said. He highlighted the dazzling performances against City and Arsenal as evidence of Carrick’s ability to organise the team effectively, even if subsequent matches have been less spectacular. Neville also pointed out Carrick’s forward‑looking mindset. "He constantly thinks about the club’s long‑term future, even if he isn’t there at the season’s end – which, frankly, looks unlikely given his success," he remarked.
The former defender praised Carrick’s tactical nous, noting how he adjusted the system during the Brentford game after an early struggle, ultimately securing a win that kept United’s Champions League hopes alive. Carrick himself remained modest, acknowledging the importance of the Brentford win while emphasizing the upcoming challenge against Liverpool. "It’s another win, but we have a big game this weekend.
We’ve put ourselves in a good position," he told Sky Sports. He admitted United could have scored more, but stressed that at this stage of the season, securing points is paramount. The Brentford match saw the visitors pull one back through Mathias Jensen late in the second half, but United held firm to preserve the three points. Carrick reflected on the performance, saying, "We needed the result after the Leeds defeat, and we delivered.
It’s all about results at this point of the season." Beyond the immediate results, Carrick’s tenure has sparked discussions about the club’s broader strategy. His ability to stabilize a squad in transition, improve defensive organization, and instill belief among senior players suggests a promising foundation for the next season.
If United can maintain this momentum, the prospect of competing in Europe again appears increasingly realistic. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the final fixtures unfold. The Liverpool clash on Sunday, broadcast live on Sky Sports, will serve as a litmus test for Carrick’s credentials. A positive result could cement his appointment, while a slip‑up might reignite debates about the club’s direction.
Regardless of the outcome, the consensus among former players, current stars, and pundits is clear: Michael Carrick has delivered a series of impressive performances that have revitalized Manchester United’s league campaign. His blend of tactical flexibility, player management, and immediate results has positioned him as the most logical choice to take the helm permanently when the new season begins. As the Red Devils look ahead, the club’s hierarchy will need to decide whether to reward Carrick’s interim success with a full‑time contract or explore alternative options. Given the praise from respected figures like Carragher, Maguire, and Neville, the odds are heavily stacked in Carrick’s favor, making his potential appointment one of the most talked‑about storylines as the Premier League draws to a close.