With Thomas Tuchel, Luis Enrique, and Carlo Ancelotti out of reach, the ‘insanely talented’ Michael Carrick is now the frontrunner to lead Manchester United beyond 2026.
What started as a temporary solution is rapidly turning into a permanent appointment. According to a report from The i Paper, Michael Carrick is now the leading candidate to become Manchester United’s next permanent manager following a spectacular transformation of the club’s fortunes.
Initially appointed as an interim successor to Ruben Amorim in January, Carrick has stunned the INEOS hierarchy by securing high-profile victories over Manchester City and Arsenal. Now, a “process of elimination” regarding other world-class targets has left the door wide open for the former United midfielder.
The ‘Perfect Balance’ at Carrington
It’s not just the results on the pitch that have impressed Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the decision-makers. The coaching setup Carrick has assembled featuring Jonathan Woodgate and the experienced Steve Holland is said to have created the “perfect balance” behind the scenes at Carrington.
Holland’s tactical discipline combined with Carrick’s calm leadership has reportedly restored a sense of identity that was missing during the final months of the Amorim era.
Why the Big Names are Out
United’s list of alternatives is shrinking fast, making Carrick’s permanent appointment look more logical by the day:
- Thomas Tuchel: Recently committed his future to the England national team with a new contract.
- Luis Enrique: Set to sign an extension with PSG.
- Carlo Ancelotti: Looks increasingly likely to lead Brazil into the next World Cup cycle.
- Roberto De Zerbi: Currently prioritizing the vacant Tottenham Hotspur role.
- Oliver Glasner: Internal doubts remain over his suitability for the Old Trafford hot seat.
‘Insanely Talented’
Described by his former Middlesbrough player Lukas Engel as “insanely talented,” Carrick’s deep connection to Manchester United is his ultimate “X-Factor.” Having spent the majority of his playing career at the club, he understands the weight of the badge—something many of his predecessors struggled to grasp.
If United maintain their current trajectory and secure Champions League football, INEOS may find it impossible to look anywhere else.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
