Man United told to appoint 'experienced figure' on touchline to assist Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick simply does not have the experience to succeed as Manchester United manager.
That is the opinion of experienced former Tottenham, Everton and Aston Villa scout, Bryan King, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
The 45-year-old is already under huge pressure at Old Trafford following a dismal start to the season that has seen his team win just two of seven matches across all competitions.
Carrick was appointed permanently in the summer after leading Man United to the Champions League as an interim manager.
The former Middlesbrough boss had been out of work for six months but returned to the club he spent most of his career at as a player, transforming the mood that had become toxic under Ruben Amorim.
However, a disappointing summer transfer window and a poor start to the season have threatened to bring back the negativity.
'Michael Carrick's a nice man but...'
A long line of managers have tried and failed to replicate Sir Alex Ferguson, and Carrick is the latest to enter the dugout.
But the problems at Old Trafford go far further then the manager, and it will likely take a big personality to start making changes above their head.
"Manchester United have always been synonymous with the name of football in England," King told Football Insider. "Who were the club with the big history? Man United.
"Who were the club who dominated the Premier League? Man United. They still haven't replaced the manager, and certainly not half the players that the manager had when they won all those championships.
"Fergie knew that the time was coming when they needed a big change in that football club. Certainly on the playing side. He built the sides that won the championships and won cups.
"Since that day he retired, he hasn't been replaced. The quality of players haven't been replaced. I'm afraid Michael Carrick's a very nice fella, a very good footballer. He had a great run last season. But he needs an experienced figure alongside him and Manchester United need an experienced figure."
Who are Carrick's staff?
There is certainly experience on Carrick's staff, but whether there is the right type of experience is up for debate.
His assistant manager, Steve Holland was an assistant to Gareth Southgate at England and is a former Chelsea coach.
The rest of the backroom staff is made up by Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion and Craig Mawson.
Carrick may well look to add a new presence to the team in the coming months, should he be able to turn the tide.