MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester United has appointed Michael Carrick as permanent head coach on a two-year deal, following an impressive interim period where he guided the team from 15th place to third in the Premier League.
Carrick's interim record stands at 11 wins in 16 games, with only two losses, transforming United's season after a disappointing 15th-place finish last term.
Club Statement
"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."
"Michael's achievements in leading the club back to the Champions League should not be understated," Wilcox added. "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 Vision
"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."
"From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United," Carrick added. "Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride."
Background and Experience
Carrick is the seventh permanent manager since the retirement of Alex Ferguson in 2013. He previously managed second-tier Middlesbrough from 2022-25.
As a player at United, Carrick was part of one of Ferguson's greatest teams, winning a Premier League and Champions League double in 2008. He won 12 major trophies in 12 years at the club, including five league titles, and was in United's last title-winning team in Ferguson's final season.
His appointment comes after previous managers attempted to restore United to the summit of English football, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer among those who came up short despite fan affection.
James Robson, The Associated Press