Michael Carrick ‘on Man United’s shortlist’ and ‘wants the manager’s job’
Michael Carrick is a “surprise” name on Man United’s shortlist as they consider their next permanent manager following Ruben Amorim’s sacking.
That is according to former Man United chief scout Mick Brown, who worked at Old Trafford for over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, exclusively told Football Insider that the 44-year-old could be next in line for the job.
It is believed Man United will consider both permanent appointments and potential interim bosses until the end of the season, with Darren Fletcher the current interim appointment.
Carrick was most recently the head coach at Middlesbrough before his dismissal in June 2025, but has been frequently tipped for a job in the Premier League.
The former midfielder made made 464 appearances for the Red Devils, lifting the Champions League and five Premier League titles, and could now make a return.
Michael Carrick on Man United’s manager shortlist
Brown told Football Insider in October 2024 that Carrick was considered by Man United after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, although he was not backed to land the job.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience working closely alongside elite-level managers including both Ron Atkinson and Sir Alex Ferguson at Man United, insisted that Carrick is once again an unlikely contender for the position.
“Everybody in the world wants to be the Man United manager,” he told Football Insider.
“They won’t be short of options by any means, and there are a few names on their list where you think yeah, they can go and get him.
“The question then is whether they go and do it now, or they get somebody in on an interim basis until the end of the season and see what your options are.
“Michael Carrick is somebody who is on that list and he would be available to step in, either permanently or as that interim manager I just mentioned.
“He knows the club and he’s already got that relationship with the fans which can be important to get them on side early doors.
“I don’t think he’ll be their top targets, there are names ahead of him who they would prefer, but he’s on the list and would be an option.”
Darren Fletcher backed to succeed in interim role
Following Amorim’s dismissal, the newly-appointed interim boss Fletcher has been backed to be a success regardless of how long he spends in the role.
Brown told Football Insider on 5 January that Fletcher is perfect for Man United given his knowledge of the club and experience behind the scenes.
Fletcher, who made over 340 appearances for the Red Devils and lifted five Premier League titles and the Champions League, will now take short-term charge.
Amorim was sacked by Man United following his press conference outburst in which he appeared to criticise the board following the 1-1 draw with Leeds at Elland Road.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe had previously outlined his commitment to Amorim, but following a number of inconsistent results, his comments proved to be the final straw.
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