Michael Carrick has agreed a two-year contract to remain Manchester United’s permanent head coach, with an optional third year that could keep him at Old Trafford until at least 2029. Final legal details are being completed and the club expects to confirm the appointment within 24–48 hours.
United’s director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada believe Carrick is the right person to lead the club after an impressive 15-game run in charge. In that spell he recorded 10 wins and three draws, secured Champions League qualification for next season and recorded high-profile victories over Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea. Reaching the Champions League is also projected to bring about a substantial revenue increase, often estimated around £100m.
Those results, combined with Carrick’s rapport with the squad, his media handling and his understanding of the club’s history, convinced United’s hierarchy to open formal talks. Carrick has long been considered the frontrunner, and club sources say it was hard to see an alternative after the progress made under his interim tenure.
Carrick has acknowledged that his future would be resolved soon. He also said he intends to follow tradition and address supporters after United’s final home game of the season. He described the end-of-season speech as important for thanking fans and recognising the connection between the team and supporters.
Players have publicly backed Carrick’s appointment. Amad Diallo said the dressing room would be happy to see him continue, praising Carrick’s relationship with the squad and the culture of togetherness he has helped build. Team-mates including Casemiro and Matheus Cunha have also voiced support.
Despite the backing, some observers urge caution. Former player and pundit Gary Neville noted that managing a club across a full season with Champions League football will present tougher tests and greater scrutiny, asking whether Carrick has the long-term experience required at the highest level. He suggested that if a proven, title-winning manager became available, United might consider that option.
Sky Sports reporting says United did speak to representatives of other candidates during their review, with names such as Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique linked. Those coaches, however, have indicated commitments elsewhere, narrowing United’s options and strengthening Carrick’s position.
Fan reaction is mixed. Supporters and commentators point to Carrick’s strong short-term impact and the unity he has restored, while sceptics warn that a longer-term appointment will expose weaknesses over a heavier programme of matches next season.
If confirmed, Carrick will take charge of Manchester United into a campaign that includes domestic competitions and the Champions League, a step up in demands that will be watched closely by fans, pundits and the club’s board. An official announcement is expected once the paperwork is finalised.