Michael Carrick is poised to become the full‑time manager of Manchester United for the upcoming campaign, according to former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher. United are edging ever closer to a return to the Champions League after solidifying a qualifying spot with a 2‑1 triumph over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday. With just four Premier League fixtures remaining, the Red Devils sit third in the table, sitting eleven points clear of sixth‑placed Brighton. That cushion means they could secure European qualification as early as next weekend when they host arch‑rivals Liverpool.
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 permanent appointment. The former midfielder, who spent his playing career at Manchester United, was quoted on Sky Sports saying, "He will definitely 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." Carragher went on to praise the results, likening them to those of a title‑contending side: "Those are the kind of outcomes you expect from a team fighting for the league. The pressure isn’t as intense right now because United aren’t juggling European fixtures, but anyone could see that no one could have delivered better results in the circumstances." Harry Maguire, speaking to Sky Sports, offered his perspective on Carrick’s early impact.
He explained, "The confidence that comes from those wins is huge. When Carrick first arrived we faced two daunting fixtures – Arsenal and Manchester City – and we managed to take all six points. That gave everyone belief.
We now feel we can score from any area and we’re still refining our shape, especially the speed of our transitions across the pitch." Maguire added that the change in formation under Carrick has been pivotal. "Since the new manager took charge, the results have spoken for themselves. Under the previous regime, games were often a coin‑toss and we usually ended up on the losing side.
Now we’re stronger at both ends – defensively we’re tighter, and in attack we’re more clinical." Gary Neville, on The Gary Neville Podcast, echoed the sentiment, noting that Carrick has extracted the maximum from the squad. "Twenty‑nine points from thirteen games is an excellent return, especially after those brilliant performances against City and Arsenal. Those two games were spectacular, and while we haven’t quite reached that same level since, the team has learned to grind out results even when the play isn’t as fluid." Neville also highlighted Carrick’s long‑term thinking. "He constantly talks about the future of the club, even if he isn’t there at the end of the season – which, given the trajectory, seems unlikely.
In the second half against Brentford he showed tactical flexibility, adjusting the system on the fly and almost sealing the win. That adaptability is a hallmark of a serious manager." The former midfielder’s tactical acumen was evident when Brentford pushed for an equaliser late on through Mathias Jensen. United held firm, and Carrick admitted the side could have been more clinical.
"We could have scored more, but at this stage of the season it’s all about securing points. After the loss to Leeds, we’ve delivered two fantastic performances and that’s what matters now." Looking ahead, Carrick is aware of the magnitude of the next challenge. "We have a big game this weekend against Liverpool – it’s a crucial fixture for several reasons.
We’ve put ourselves in a strong position, and now we just need to keep the momentum." If United can maintain their current form, they stand a realistic chance of clinching a Champions League berth when they host Liverpool on Sunday, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The victory over Brentford not only gave them three points but also reinforced the belief that Carrick’s leadership is steering the club in the right direction. Beyond the immediate results, Carrick’s appointment would signal a shift in United’s managerial philosophy.
Rather than seeking a high‑profile external candidate, the club would be promoting from within, rewarding a former player who understands the institution’s culture and expectations. This approach could foster continuity, stability, and a renewed sense of identity among both players and supporters. In summary, the consensus among pundits, former players, and the squad itself is that Michael Carrick has earned the right to take the helm permanently. His tactical adjustments, ability to inspire confidence, and impressive points tally make a compelling case for his appointment.
Should United secure Champions League qualification next weekend, the stage would be set for Carrick to begin his first full season with the club, aiming to restore the Red Devils to their historic stature in English and European football.