Michael Carrick is poised to become the full‑time manager of Manchester United for the upcoming campaign, according to former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher. The Red Devils are edging ever closer to a return to the Champions League after they secured a 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday, tightening their grip on a qualifying spot. With only four Premier League fixtures left to play, United sit third in the table, sitting eleven points clear of sixth‑placed Brighton.
That cushion means the club could mathematically guarantee a place in Europe next weekend when they host arch‑rivals Liverpool. The interim manager, Carrick, has overseen nine wins in 13 matches since taking charge in January, a run that Carragher described as "sensational" and worthy of a permanent appointment.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the former Liverpool defender said, "He's going to be the Manchester United manager, certainly next season, no doubt about that – you can't say he doesn't deserve it. The results have been absolutely sensational. They resemble the kind of outcomes you would expect from a title‑contending side or a team fighting for the league." Carragher added that, while United are not currently under the pressure of European fixtures, the momentum generated under Carrick makes it hard to imagine any other candidate delivering better results.
The interim boss’s impact has also been highlighted by captain Harry Maguire, who told Sky Sports that the confidence within the squad has surged thanks to the recent turn of events. "The results help the feeling of confidence massively," Maguire explained. "We had two tough fixtures when Michael first came in – Arsenal and Man City – and we managed to take six points.
Everyone believes in the system now, we know we can score from anywhere, and we’re getting better at the defensive shape as well." Maguire went on to compare the current form with the period under former manager Rúben Amorim, noting that under Carrick the team appears more balanced on both ends of the pitch. "When Rúben was in charge, games were often 50/50 and we usually ended up on the losing side. Now we’re stronger defensively and more clinical in attack," he said. Sky Sports legend Gary Neville also weighed in on his podcast, praising Carrick’s ability to extract the maximum from the existing squad.
"Twenty‑nine points from thirteen games is an excellent return," Neville observed. "The first two games against City and Arsenal were outstanding – they showed what this side can do. Even when we’re not playing at that highest level, we’re still finding ways to win, which is a hallmark of a good manager." Neville highlighted Carrick’s long‑term vision, suggesting that even if the interim period ends, the club would likely retain him because of his tactical flexibility. "He’s shown he can adapt mid‑game, shutting down opponents when needed.
If Brentford had equalised, the criticism would have been fierce, but he made quick adjustments and kept United compact," Neville explained. Carrick himself acknowledged the progress, stating that the win over Brentford puts United in a "good position" as they chase Champions League qualification. He added, "It’s another win and we have an important game coming up this weekend against Liverpool.
It’s a big match for many reasons, but we’ve put ourselves in a favourable spot." The Brentford encounter was not without drama; Mathias Jensen scored late in the second half, but United held firm to preserve the three points. Carrick reflected on the performance, saying, "We could have scored more, but at this stage of the season it’s all about results. After the Leeds defeat we’ve delivered two fantastic games, and those points are vital." Overall, the narrative surrounding Manchester United’s interim period has shifted dramatically. What began as a caretaker stint has evolved into a compelling case for a permanent appointment, backed by a string of impressive results, tactical adaptability, and a noticeable uplift in squad morale.
If United can secure the win against Liverpool, they will not only clinch a Champions League berth but also cement Carrick’s reputation as a manager capable of guiding a storied club back to the summit of English football. The club’s fans, analysts, and former players alike are now watching closely, eager to see whether Carrick’s tenure will be formalised and how he will shape United’s future in the seasons to come.