Back To The Dugout: Michael Carrick Named As Man United’s New Interim Head Coach

Last Updated:January 14, 2026, 07:30 IST

Carrick was officially named the new interim manager for Manchester United, as the Red Devils aim to secure Champions League qualification.

Carrick returns as the interim manager for the Red Devils (X)

The silence has finally been broken: Michael Carrick is now the new interim manager for Manchester United until the end of the season.

The 44-year-old club legend, who won 12 major trophies during a glittering 12-year playing spell at Old Trafford, steps in with United sitting seventh in the Premier League — as the Red Devils chase a return to the Champions League.

“Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour,” Carrick said. “There is still a lot to fight for this season.”

Carrick’s first test could hardly be tougher: a derby showdown against Manchester City on Sunday.

United are just three points off fourth-placed Liverpool and one behind fifth-placed Brentford, with a top-five finish likely enough to secure Champions League football thanks to England’s strong European coefficient.

This is not Carrick’s first taste of the job. He went unbeaten in three matches as caretaker boss in 2021, overseeing wins against Villarreal and Arsenal before handing over to Ralf Rangnick.

After leaving United’s coaching staff, Carrick took charge at Middlesbrough in 2022, guiding them to the Championship play-offs in his first season before narrowly missing out in successive campaigns. He was dismissed last June after Boro finished 10th.

United’s hierarchy believe Carrick’s deep understanding of the club — forged through 464 appearances, multiple league titles and a Champions League under Sir Alex Ferguson — makes him the steady hand needed during the run-in.

The 44-year-old will also be supported by the likes of Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion, Jonny Evans and Craig Mawson, while Darren Fletcher will remain as the lead coach of the Under-18s.

Now, Carrick is back where it all began, with one clear mission: steady the ship, win the derby, and drag United back into Europe’s elite.

Read More