Manchester United’s hunt for a new head coach is yet to reach a conclusion despite Michael Carrick thriving on an interim basis
Michael Carrick may have just two matches remaining as Manchester United manager after his side were held to a goalless stalemate by Sunderland AFC on Saturday. Although Carrick has flourished at the helm since taking on an interim role until the season’s conclusion, he was unable to inspire his side to three points at the Stadium of Light.
United looked below par for much of the contest, despite arriving at the ground in considerably better form than the Black Cats. Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland commanded the match for lengthy spells, enjoying the greater share of both chances and possession.
To put it into perspective, United didn’t register their first shot on target until the 93rd minute, when Matheus Cunha’s effort was kept out by the shoulder of Robin Roefs. With the season nearing a conclusion, decisions will soon need to be made ahead of what will be a busy summer.
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Wayne Rooney’s managerial issue
Wayne Rooney believes the ongoing uncertainty surrounding United’s managerial position could prove damaging this summer, with prospective transfer targets likely wanting clarity on who will be leading the club before committing. While Champions League football is assured following the club’s remarkable resurgence under Carrick, it remains unclear whether the 44-year-old will be the man tasked with steering them through both domestic and European competition next term.
Although United have been linked with a host of midfield targets as they seek a long-term replacement for Casemiro – among them Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Sandro Tonali – any prospective signing will likely want assurances about how they fit into a new manager’s plans before committing to a move.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Rooney said: “Manchester United need to invest in players in the summer in order to compete in the Premier League next season, in the Champions League next season, which is where they want to be. They have to invest.
“They have to strengthen the squad and I don’t think there’s any denying that. Now, if I was a player and Man United wanted to sign me, the first question I’d ask, ‘Who is the manager? Does the manager want me?’ So I think [they need] to have clarity on the manager.”
Rooney wants Carrick to get the job. He added: “I think for the club to announce him, I think they need to do it swiftly because they need to get players in. They need to get players to improve that team.”
Andoni Iraola’s stark managerial admission
Iraola has admitted that he is “in no rush” to make a decision on his next move, despite being linked with both United and Chelsea. The Bournemouth head coach will bring a three-year spell at the Vitality Stadium to an end this summer, even as the Cherries push towards a European qualification spot.
While several Premier League clubs are believed to be weighing up the prospect of appointing him as their next manager – Crystal Palace among them – it is now clear that Iraola has no intention of rushing into his next role.
Following Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Fulham in London, the Spaniard said: “I’m in no rush. I will not talk about my future. I’m fully focused on trying to finish this season with a reward, something tangible for the [Bournemouth] players and supporters.
“It was not an easy decision [to leave] but once it is made you feel relief. I feel we have used it in a positive way. Since that day, we’ve had great results but also the mood.
“Everyone is clear, the relationship is so clean and honest. Okay, this is going to happen, next season Marco Rose will be our manager. Everyone knows what’s happening. We are in good place and can use this in a positive way.”
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