MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester United appointed Michael Carrick as permanent head coach on Friday, awarding him a two-year contract after an impressive interim period.
Carrick guided United to third in the Premier League this season after the club finished 15th last term—a record low in the modern era. During his tenure, he recorded 11 wins in 16 games with just two losses.
Club Backs Carrick's Long-Term Vision
"Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men's team," said United director of football Jason Wilcox, who led the search for the club's next coach. "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."
Carrick becomes the seventh permanent manager since Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013.
Carrick's Playing Legacy and Managerial Experience
A multiple title winner as a United player, Carrick won 12 major trophies in 12 years at the club, including five Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League. He was part of Ferguson's greatest team and featured in United's last title-winning campaign under the legendary Scotsman.
His only previous full-time managerial experience came at second-tier Middlesbrough from 2022-25, making this appointment a significant leap to the top level.
"Throughout the past five months we've shown what our club represents—resilience, togetherness and a determination to succeed," Carrick said. "Now it's about moving forward again with ambition and purpose. This club and our supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honors and we're never going to stop."
Wilcox Emphasizes Champions League Return
"Michael's achievements in leading the club back to the Champions League should not be understated," Wilcox said. "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 appointment follows Ruben Amorim's brief 14-month tenure, with Wilcox placing faith in Carrick despite his relatively limited experience at the highest level.
"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."
— James Robson, The Associated Press