Coach Michael Carrick has officially returned in a new role amid rumors that he might take over as Manchester United's head coach.
Michael Carrick resumed work after leaving Middlesbrough in June. The former Manchester United manager was dismissed at Riverside earlier this year when the team finished 10th in the league.
Four months after departing Middlesbrough, Carrick found a new position, though not in the way many fans expected. At 44 years old, he is now a Technical Observer for UEFA and recently provided notable analysis on PSG’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona.
However, Carrick's time with UEFA might be short-lived if the rumors of his return to Old Trafford come true. Current coach Ruben Amorim is under immense pressure as Manchester United continues to struggle under his leadership.
Last weekend, the "Red Devils" suffered a 1-3 defeat at Brentford. If they fail to beat the in-form Sunderland at Old Trafford this weekend, Amorim’s chances of keeping his job will likely diminish.
With Oliver Glasner considered a strong candidate to replace Amorim, some believe Carrick could return to United as interim manager. In 2021, after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was dismissed, Carrick temporarily led Manchester United to impressive results: a 2-0 win over Villarreal in the Champions League, a 1-1 draw against Chelsea, and a 3-2 victory over Arsenal before handing over to Ralf Rangnick in December.
His predecessor Solskjaer once stated that Carrick is fully capable of becoming Manchester United’s head coach in the future. He told The Athletic in 2023: “I am 100% sure Michael will become Manchester United’s manager if he wants to. I can’t imagine Michael not leading United. He’s a true winner but always stays calm. Michael knows exactly what he needs and would never let emotions interfere or cause conflicts with players.”
Michael Carrick joined Manchester United from Tottenham in 2006 and quickly became a key figure in midfield. With intelligent play, precise passing, and sharp tactical awareness, Carrick was the "brain" controlling the game for the Red Devils for over a decade. Over 12 years at Old Trafford, he played more than 450 matches, winning 5 Premier League titles, 1 Champions League, 1 FA Cup, and many other honors. Known as a quiet yet effective midfielder, Carrick left a significant legacy in Manchester United’s history.