CARRICK LEADING CONTENDER FOR INTERIM ROLE AS UNITED SEARCH INTENSIFIES

Manchester United’s board are moving swiftly to appoint an interim manager before the squad reconvenes for training this week, with Michael Carrick now the clear front-runner for the role, The Dispatch understands.

Sources with direct knowledge of the situation indicate that significant discussions have taken place with the former United midfielder, who is prepared to step in on a temporary basis for the second time in three years. While no final agreement has been signed, there is a growing expectation at Carrington that a deal will be finalised in time for Wednesday’s return to training.

The 44-year-old’s previous caretaker stint in 2021—a three-match tenure following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure—saw him remain unbeaten before stepping aside for Ralf Rangnick. His familiarity with the club’s structure, current squad, and the immediate challenges of the role is viewed as a decisive advantage in United’s urgent bid for stability.

Carrick’s potential appointment comes after a brief and turbulent spell under Darren Fletcher, who oversaw a Premier League draw with Burnley and an FA Cup exit to Brighton. Fletcher is now expected to revert to his technical director responsibilities.

This development follows a series of high-level conversations over the weekend, including a face-to-face meeting between the club and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer regarding a sensational return. However, the process has now accelerated toward Carrick, whose immediate availability and internal credibility have strengthened his position.

Since his departure from Middlesbrough last summer—where he led the team to Championship playoff contention across two full seasons—Carrick has been without a club, allowing for a seamless transition should he accept the short-term position.

Unlike Solskjaer’s return, which carried significant narrative weight, the club’s hierarchy appear to be prioritising a low-maintenance, transitional figure who can steady operations without the baggage of a long-term commitment. Carrick’s deep roots at United, spanning 12 years as a player and a further four as a first-team coach under José Mourinho and Solskjaer, align with that pragmatic approach.

United dismissed head coach Ruben Amorim earlier this month after just 14 months in charge, triggering this latest period of upheaval. The search for a permanent successor is being conducted separately and is not expected to conclude before the season’s end.