Manchester United have officially appointed Michael Carrick as the club’s permanent manager following an impressive spell in interim charge.
The former midfielder, who spent over a decade at Old Trafford as a player, has signed a contract that will keep him at the club until 2028, marking a new chapter in Manchester United’s rebuilding process.
Speaking after the announcement, Carrick expressed pride and emotion at being entrusted with the responsibility of leading the club permanently.
From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. 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’s appointment comes after a strong interim period in which the team showed renewed discipline, confidence and tactical identity. Under his leadership, United secured qualification back to the UEFA Champions League, while performances on the pitch reflected greater cohesion and consistency.
Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, explained the club’s decision to hand Carrick the role permanently.
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.”
Carrick’s calm leadership style and strong communication have reportedly played a major role in restoring belief within the squad. Players have spoken positively about the clarity of his ideas and his ability to connect with individuals on and off the pitch.
Club captain Harry Maguire praised the new manager’s relationship with the squad.
He has been excellent with players, communicates really well,” Maguire said.
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes, who recently won the FWA Men’s Footballer of the Year award, also backed Carrick’s managerial qualities.
I’ve always said that Carrick could be a great manager,” Fernandes said.
When, as a player, you can see and think about the game like him, you can also do it from the bench.
Of course, it’s different, but when you have that calmness, that intelligence, you tell yourself there’s potential. He’s done a fantastic job since he arrived.”
Michael Carrick was appointed interim manager in January 2026 beating Manchester City at home and securing all three points against Arsenal at the Emirates. Out of 16 games, he won 11, drew 3 and lost 2 averaging 2.25 points per game.