MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester United appointed Michael Carrick as permanent coach on Friday, awarding him a two-year contract after he impressed during his trial period.
Carrick steered United to third in the Premier League after finishing 15th last term—a record low in the modern era. His record during the interim period: 11 wins in 16 games with just two losses.
Club Backs New Manager
"Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men's team," said Jason Wilcox, United's director of football. "We have seen positive results on the pitch, plus an approach which aligns with the club's values, traditions and history."
Wilcox led the search for the club's next coach. "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 we're building."
Carrick's Vision
"Throughout the past five months we've shown what our club represents—resilience, togetherness and a determination to succeed," Carrick said. "This club and our supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honors, and we're never going to stop."
Carrick is the seventh permanent manager since Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013. He takes over after Ruben Amorim lasted just 14 months.
Playing Career Credentials
As a multiple title winner with United as a player, Carrick had the support of fans and club icons calling for him to be given the permanent job.
He was part of Ferguson's legendary 2008 team that won the Premier League and Champions League double. In 12 years at United, he won 12 major trophies, including five league titles, and was in the club's last title-winning team in Ferguson's final season.
His only previous full-time managerial experience came at second-tier Middlesbrough from 2022-25.
The appointment signals United's attempt to return to the summit of English football after trying various approaches since Ferguson's departure.