Stefan Borson: This is what Michael Carrick must achieve to become permanent Man United manager
Manchester United have rolled the dice with their manager situation after appointing Michael Carrick on an interim basis.
It was confirmed earlier this month Man United have sacked Ruben Amorim following disagreements behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
Carrick has been appointed as interim boss until the end of the season as he looks to help the club secure a return to European football.
Football Insider revealed on Thursday (15 January) Man United are working on signing a new left-winger this month after discussing recruitment options with Carrick.
Why Man United could be forced to appoint Michael Carrick
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider Carrick would likely be given the Man United job on a permanent basis if they qualify for the Champions League this season.
The 44-year-old’s most recent managerial stint was at Middlesbrough, where he was sacked last summer after spending two-and-a-half years in charge at the Riverside Stadium.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about what Carrick has to achieve to land the job permanently, Borson said: “I think this is the big question really because let's say he wins 12 or 13 games, and let's say they do somehow qualify for the Champions League from this position, which would be actually a really great achievement I think given the quality of their play and their squad.
“Let's say he does that, what would United do in that scenario? Surely, they'd have to give him the job, which is not really part of the plan and sort of where they've been before.
“But I just think that there'll be a noise, a movement, and a level of support for him out there with the fans, media and everything else that goes around these situations that will convince them to give him the job.”
Why Carrick's situation at Man United is 'strange'
Carrick will be assisted by Steve Holland, while Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans and Travis Binnion also form part of his coaching staff as he looks to make an impression at Old Trafford.
“I would say qualifying for the Champions League is what he has to do to get the job permanently,” said Borson.
“I think anything below that, I think it's unlikely he would be offered the job, which makes the whole thing a bit strange.”
Carrick previously oversaw three games as Man United’s caretaker manager in 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure.
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