Man United confirm Michael Carrick as permanent manager

Manchester United have confirmed they will keep Michael Carrick on as permanent manager beyond the end of the season.

Carrick was appointed in January on an interim basis following the sacking of Ruben Amorim but has overseen a sensational change in fortunes, guiding the club up the table to secure Champions League qualification.

The former United midfielder has recorded 11 Premier League wins in 16 matches, which included a seven-game unbeaten streak after taking the reins. He also boasts the highest points tally in the English top flight since his arrival.

“From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United,” Carrick said.

“Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride.

“Throughout the past five months, this group of players have shown they can reach the standards of resilience, togetherness and determination that we demand here.

“Now it’s time to move forward together again, with ambition and a clear sense of purpose. Manchester United and our incredible supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again.”

Carrick will lead United into their final game of the season away at Brighton on Sunday after sealing third place with a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest in their last Old Trafford outing.

Explaining the club’s decision to keep Carrick on in the long-term, director of football Jason Wilcox said: “Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men’s team.

“In the time he has been doing the role, we have seen positive results on the pitch, but more than that, an approach which aligns with the club’s values, traditions and history.

“Michael’s achievements in leading the club back to the Champions League should not be understated. He has forged a strong bond with the players and can be proud of the winning culture at Carrington and in the dressing room, which we are continuing to build.”

The 44-year-old rejoined the Red Devils for a second interim stint with the club out of all cup competitions, with former team-mate Darren Fletcher losing both outings in charge as caretaker boss before his arrival, including an FA Cup third-round tie at home to the Seagulls.

With only the Premier League left to focus on, Carrick has spearheaded an impressive season turnaround that leaves United looking forward to a first Champions League campaign since 2023/24.

Qualification into Europe’s premier competition comes a year on from enduring a stark low in the club’s history on the continental stage, losing the Europa League final to Tottenham after finishing 15th in the Premier League.