Michael Carrick is poised to become the permanent 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 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. That cushion means qualification could be secured as early as next weekend when they host fierce rivals Liverpool. Since stepping into the interim role in January, Carrick has overseen an impressive run of nine wins in thirteen matches. Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, was unequivocal: “He will be the Manchester United manager next season, no doubt about it – and you can’t argue he doesn’t deserve it.” The former midfielder’s comment reflected the "sensational" nature of United’s recent results, which Carragher likened to the standards of a title‑contending side.
The ex‑Liverpool defender went on to explain that, although United are not currently under the pressure of European fixtures, the club’s trajectory under Carrick has been nothing short of remarkable. "I don’t think anyone could have come in and delivered better results at this stage," he said. Harry Maguire, speaking to Sky Sports about Carrick’s impact, highlighted the confidence boost that the string of victories has provided. "The results speak for themselves," Maguire said, noting that United had faced two daunting fixtures – against Arsenal and Manchester City – when Carrick first arrived.
"We managed to take all six points, and that belief has carried through to the rest of the squad." Maguire also praised the tactical adjustments made by Carrick, observing that the team now moves more fluidly across the pitch and shows greater cohesion both defensively and offensively. "We defend our box a lot better and we’re more clinical in front of goal," he added, emphasizing that the side’s balance has improved markedly compared to the era under former manager Rúben Amorim, when results were often described as "50/50" and ended in defeat.
Former United stalwart Gary Neville, on his podcast, echoed these sentiments. He noted that Carrick has extracted the maximum performance from the current group of players, pointing to the 29 points amassed in thirteen games under his stewardship. "Those first two games against City and Arsenal were absolutely amazing," Neville said, adding that the team has continued to find ways to win even when not playing at its absolute best.
Neville also highlighted Carrick’s long‑term vision for the club. "Even if he isn’t here at the end of the season, he’s already thinking about United’s future," he remarked, suggesting that Carrick’s tactical acumen allows him to adapt mid‑game, a skill he demonstrated against Brentford when he altered the system after a shaky first half and steadied the ship.
Carrick himself remains modest but confident about United’s position. After the Brentford win, he told Sky Sports: "It’s another win, and we have a big game coming up on the weekend.
We’ve put ourselves in a good position." He acknowledged that United could have scored more but stressed that, at this stage of the season, securing points is paramount. "We needed the three points and we’ve had a fantastic two games after the Leeds defeat," he said. The victory over Brentford also saw Mathias Jensen pull a late goal for the visitors, but United held firm to preserve the win. This result brings United within touching distance of clinching a Champions League spot, a goal that could be sealed when they host Liverpool on Sunday – a match that promises high drama and a potential final nail in the coffin for any remaining qualification rivals.
Beyond the immediate results, Carrick’s tenure has sparked discussions about the club’s broader strategic direction. Analysts note that his willingness to switch formations, tighten defensive shape, and encourage quick transitions has revitalized a side that had struggled for consistency over the past few seasons.
The emphasis on a compact midfield, combined with the attacking freedom given to forwards, has produced a more balanced and resilient squad. Supporters, too, have voiced optimism.
Social media buzz reflects a renewed belief that United can not only secure European football but also mount a genuine challenge for higher honors. The combination of experienced veterans like Maguire and emerging talents nurtured under Carrick’s guidance suggests a promising blend of stability and dynamism. In summary, the consensus among pundits, former players, and the squad itself is that Michael Carrick has turned a struggling United side into a competitive, results‑driven outfit. His tactical flexibility, man‑management skills, and evident passion for the club have convinced many that he deserves the permanent job.
With the Champions League qualification looming and a high‑profile clash against Liverpool on the horizon, the next few weeks will be crucial in cementing his legacy and possibly confirming his appointment as Manchester United’s manager for the 2024‑25 season.