OFFICIAL: Michael Carrick named Man United interim manager, Darren Fletcher not part of coaching staff

Through an official announcement on the club’s website, Man United confirmed a short-term contract with Carrick that will run until June 2026. The leadership expressed high expectations for the 44-year-old, citing his deep understanding of the club's values. 

“Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United. He is ready to lead our talented and determined group of players for the remainder of the season as we continue to build the club towards regular and sustained success”, Director of football, Jason Wilcox said. 

Initially, Carrick and his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were considered the top 2 candidates for the interim role. While many British media outlets believed Solskjaer might return to Old Trafford, Carrick reportedly turned the tide during an impressive interview with the club's board earlier this week. His detailed and elaborate tactical plans to revitalize the squad for the remainder of the campaign ultimately convinced the hierarchy.

This appointment marks Carrick’s second spell as United’s manager. He previously served as a caretaker for 3 matches in late 2021 after Solskjaer’s dismissal. During that brief period, he remained unbeaten with 2 wins and 1 draw, most notably securing a thrilling 3-2 victory over Arsenal in the Premier League.

Upon his return to the dugout, Carrick expressed his gratitude to the owners for the opportunity and sent a promising message to the supporters. 

In his first interview as head coach, he stated: “Having the responsibility to lead Man United is an honour. I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing.”

Carrick will be supported by a highly experienced backroom team. Steve Holland, the former England assistant coach who won the Champions League and Premier League with Chelsea, joins as his primary assistant. The staff also includes Jonathan Woodgate, Carrick’s former No. 2 at Middlesbrough and a former Real Madrid defender; Travis Binnion, the current U21s coach; and veteran defender Jonny Evans, who continues his coaching transition.

Surprisingly, Darren Fletcher is not part of Carrick’s first-team staff. Despite earlier speculation, Fletcher opted to return to his role as head coach of the Under-18s, preferring to focus on youth development for the rest of the season.

With 17 games remaining, Carrick’s primary mission is to secure a top-five finish for Champions League qualification. United currently sit 7th in the Premier League with 32 points from 21 matches, trailing 5th-placed Brentford by just 1 point, but their form has been inconsistent, with only 1 win in their last 7 outings.

Carrick is a true icon at Old Trafford, having spent 12 years at the club from 2006 to 2018. He made 464 appearances, scoring 24 goals and providing 40 assists while winning five Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League. 

After retiring, he joined the coaching staffs of Jose Mourinho and Solskjaer. He took his first permanent managerial job at Middlesbrough in October 2022, leading them to the playoffs in his first season before being dismissed in June 2025 after failing to secure promotion.

The new head coach faces an immediate and massive challenge as Man United hosts local rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford this Saturday.