Michael Carrick is poised to become the full‑time manager of Manchester United for the upcoming campaign, according to former Liverpool stalwart Jamie Carragher. United are edging ever closer to a return to the Champions League after they solidified a qualifying spot with a 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday.
With only four league fixtures left, the Red Devils sit third in the table, sitting 11 points ahead of Brighton in sixth place, and they could seal European qualification as early as next weekend when they host rivals Liverpool. Since stepping into the interim role in January, Carrick has overseen nine wins in 13 matches, a turnaround that has prompted Carragher to predict that the club will retain him as head coach after a string of "sensational results." The ex‑Liverpool defender told Sky Sports, "He will definitely be Manchester United's manager next season – there is no doubt about it, and you cannot argue that he doesn’t deserve the job. The results have been extraordinary, the kind you would expect from a title‑contending side or a team fighting for the league." Carragher added that, while United are not currently burdened by European fixtures, the pressure will inevitably increase, yet "no one could have produced better outcomes given the circumstances." Harry Maguire, speaking to Sky Sports about Carrick’s impact, said, "The confidence that comes from those results is massive. When Michael first arrived we faced two very tough games – Arsenal and Manchester City – and we managed to snatch six points.
That gave everyone belief. We now have the certainty that we can score from anywhere, and we are still improving the shape of our play. We can move the ball across the pitch faster, something we needed to do." Maguire continued, "Since Michael took over, the results have spoken for themselves.
Under the previous manager, Ruben Amorim, games were often a 50/50 proposition that usually ended in defeat. Now we are stronger at both ends of the pitch – we defend better and we are more clinical in attack." Former United captain Gary Neville, on his podcast, praised Carrick’s early record: "If you look at the numbers – 29 points from 13 games – that’s a brilliant achievement. The first two games under Michael, against City and Arsenal, were spectacular; they showed what the team is capable of. Since then, even when the performances dip, the squad still finds a way to win, which is a hallmark of a good manager." Neville also highlighted Carrick’s forward‑thinking mindset, noting that the interim boss often talks about the long‑term future of the club, even if his tenure were to end after the season.
"He has the tactical nous to adapt mid‑game. In the Brentford match, when the first half wasn’t as compact as it should have been, he made quick adjustments and the team tightened up.
That kind of agility is essential at this level." Carrick himself acknowledged United’s improved standing after the Brentford win, saying, "It’s another win and we have a crucial game against Liverpool this weekend. That match is important for many reasons, but we have put ourselves in a strong position heading into it." He admitted United could have added more goals, but emphasized the pragmatic reality of the season: "At this stage of the campaign it’s all about results.
We needed the points, especially after the disappointment at Leeds, and we delivered." The victory over Brentford saw the visitors pull a late goal back through Mathias Jensen, yet United held firm to preserve the three points. The win not only moved them nearer to Champions League qualification but also reinforced Carrick’s case for a permanent appointment.
If United can secure a positive result against Liverpool on Sunday, they could mathematically guarantee a place in Europe for the 2024‑25 season. Beyond the immediate results, Carrick’s tenure has sparked discussions about tactical evolution at Old Trafford. Under his guidance, the team has shifted to a more compact defensive block while encouraging fluid movement in attack, allowing midfielders to arrive late in the box and create scoring opportunities from varied positions. This flexibility has helped United break down traditionally strong opponents and has been praised by former players and pundits alike.
In summary, the consensus among former United figures, current players, and media commentators is that Michael Carrick has delivered a remarkable turnaround in a short period. His ability to adapt tactics, inspire confidence, and secure vital points against top opposition has positioned him as the leading candidate to take over the role permanently next season. With the final fixtures looming and a potential Champions League spot within reach, United fans and the club hierarchy alike will be watching closely to see if Carrick’s interim success translates into a long‑term appointment at the helm of one of the world’s most storied football institutions.