Man Utd analysis: Should Michael Carrick be named permanent manager for the 2026/27 season?
Following Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Liverpool in a thrilling encounter on Sunday, the case for Michael Carrick to take on the role permanently at Old Trafford continues to strengthen, with the club now closing in on a Champions League place.
After being appointed interim manager on January 13, Carrick has taken the Premier League by storm, writes Sports News Blitz’s Uchenna Haq.
A flying start under Michael Carrick
A debut 2-0 win over Manchester City, delivered in dominant fashion, sparked a four-game winning streak, something the Red Devils had not achieved since February 2024.
Victories against an in-form Arsenal side, who were on a 12-match unbeaten run, as well as a home win over Spurs, who rank among the league’s strongest away teams, further underlined that the result against Liverpool was no fluke.
Within his first 10 league matches, Carrick collected 23 points from a possible 30, recording seven wins and just one defeat.
The last manager to reach similar levels was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who matched a record 26 points from his first 10 games, alongside former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou.
If Carrick’s current form were maintained across a full season, United would be on course for approximately 87 points, a total that would have been enough to win the 2025/26 Premier League title. This has reignited conversations around silverware for the first time since Erik ten Hag led the club to FA Cup success in 2024.
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Does the managerial market favour Carrick?
One potential rival for the role could have been Roberto De Zerbi.
Given United’s performance against Liverpool, which showcased a more structured and adaptable build-up approach, there are stylistic similarities to De Zerbi’s philosophy, widely regarded as one of the most progressive tactical systems in European football.
However, reports linking De Zerbi with a move to Manchester United have cooled, and he no longer appears to be a leading candidate.
Another high-profile option could be former Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso.
Alonso has built a strong reputation in management, particularly during his time at Bayer Leverkusen, where he disrupted Bayern Munich’s domestic dominance. His tactical intelligence and midfield expertise could be valuable in developing players such as Kobbie Mainoo and shaping the team’s long-term identity.
That said, with links elsewhere and limited experience in English football, Alonso would represent a more uncertain appointment compared to Carrick.
What must United get right to support Carrick?
In recent years, Manchester United have suffered significant financial setbacks due to managerial turnover.
The departure of Ruben Amorim saw the club pay a substantial compensation package, while Erik ten Hag’s contract extension following FA Cup success in 2024 ultimately proved costly when he was dismissed early due to poor league form.
These decisions came during a financially sensitive period, with the club aiming to reduce costs while also dealing with the impact of missing out on Champions League revenue.
As a result, the first priority for United must be stability. A clear and well-structured contract would help avoid further financial losses and provide long-term direction.
Recruitment is another key area.
Recent signings have drawn criticism, with large fees failing to translate into consistent performances. Antony, André Onana, and Rasmus Højlund have all faced scrutiny, highlighting the need for a more effective transfer strategy.
Carrick’s challenge would be to build on the current squad, which now appears more cohesive and balanced, and develop a team capable of competing for major honours.
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A squad buying into the vision
With Manchester United pushing towards Champions League qualification, leading the league’s form table in 2026, and showing clear signs of improvement, Carrick has emerged as the leading candidate for the role.
Perhaps most importantly, the players appear fully behind him.
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo’s comment that he would “die for him” reflects the strong belief within the squad and suggests Carrick has already earned the trust required to lead the club forward.
On current evidence, the argument for making his appointment permanent is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
