Carrick reveals conversation with Sir Jim Ratcliffe! Uncovers key factor in Manchester United's manager selection, Carrick has a £100 million reason to be appointed permanently.

Last week, Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe went to Carrington training ground to share a cup of tea with manager Carrick. Nevertheless, when questioned about the incumbent manager's prospects, Sir Jim refrained from making any remarks. At the weekend, Carrick revealed what he discussed with Sir Jim.

It is not unusual for Sir Jim to appear at Carrington during the season; having tea and conversations with the coach is a regular occurrence. Former manager Ruben Amorim also enjoyed such treatment, even jokingly telling Sir Jim to "get out" when tactics were mentioned. However, not long after, Amorim himself was out.

Carrick would not treat Sir Jim like Amorim did, as his fate will be decided by the owner within a month. Regarding his exchange with Sir Jim, Carrick stated: "We just chatted, had tea together. It was simple casual talk, but it was pleasant to see him express his support for me. That's it, the atmosphere was relaxed, and meeting him was enjoyable. As a club, we always maintain close connections, which is an essential tradition at Manchester United. I clearly understand this should be the case, and I am striving to continue it."

It is worth noting that during Manchester United's previous match against Brentford, Amorim's position was under threat. The Red Devils suffered a 3-1 defeat away, losing three of their first six games, and rumors suggested the Portuguese young manager was about to be sacked. Sir Jim publicly backed him then, claiming he would give him three years to prove himself. Three months later, Amorim openly challenged the club's authority, and Sir Jim immediately fired him.

Manchester United's current situation is much better than seven months ago, being just "two steps" away from Champions League qualification. If they can win against Brentford and Liverpool at home this week, they will secure a top-five finish in the Premier League. Carrick explicitly said: "This is the goal we aim to achieve. Manchester United has delivered many excellent performances in matches, and the current situation is quite favorable. We hope for even better outcomes and will continue to work hard. This illustrates how difficult it is to stay at the top."

Brentford currently ranks 9th and still has hopes of competing for European spots, with even a theoretical chance for Champions League qualification. However, Keith Andrew's team faces a daunting schedule, having to visit three of the Premier League's top four teams consecutively, including Manchester United, Manchester City, and Liverpool.

Although defeating Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday night does not guarantee Manchester United's return to the Champions League with 100% certainty, achieving it would mean securing a top-five ranking is merely a matter of time. When Carrick took over, sports director Jason Wilcox tasked him with obtaining Champions League qualification. Leading the team into the Premier League top three would be an added bonus.

Manchester United stated they are not rushing to decide on next season's manager appointment, with current priority being firmly securing Champions League qualification. The British Daily Mail reported that Carrick has a strong chance of being appointed permanently, and Champions League qualification is the key. Achieving a top-five Premier League finish gives him "a £100 million reason to be appointed permanently"!

For Manchester United, participating in the Champions League brings approximately £100 million in revenue. Last season's Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain received £125 million in prize money, while runner-up Inter Milan got £118 million, all from UEFA's increased prize pool of £2.14 billion.

If only playing in the Europa League, the income is minimal. Last season Manchester United reached the final and received only £31 million, while champion Tottenham got £35.5 million. Tottenham's North London rival Arsenal, who reached the Champions League semifinals last season, earned £50.57 million in prize money alone, excluding television broadcast revenue.

Therefore, Manchester United, burdened with £1.3 billion debt, eagerly desires to rejoin the Champions League. Manchester United certainly has other factors to consider; Sir Jim traditionally prefers hiring a more dominant manager on the bench, and Carrick may not meet this criterion. However, he is very familiar with Manchester United's environment, and if he leads the team into the Champions League, it would prove he is capable of handling the job.

Carrick's coaching staff is also awaiting further arrangements; assistant coaches Steve Holland and Jonathan Woodgate have performed excellently, along with two familiar figures at Manchester United: club legend Jonny Evans and U21 manager Travis Binnion.

"Our relationship is very harmonious," Carrick commented. "Although we are temporarily collaborating, everyone has a clear understanding of each other's roles. Honestly, this isn't something that requires excessive discussion. I think everyone shares the same view; it's quite evident, and the coaches have no objections. I must say, the staff here are truly outstanding. Maintaining normal daily operations when a new manager arrives requires immense effort and dedication."

The Athletic reported that Sir Jim will decide Manchester United's next manager. Laurie Whitwell explained: "There exists some hesitation or concern among Manchester United's senior leadership. Who exactly is hesitant? I believe Sir Jim plays a crucial role in this matter. He needs to consider: whether Carrick is suitable for this role; simultaneously, whether he wishes to appoint someone he believes possesses the appropriate character and prestige to manage Manchester United."