Manchester United confirm Michael Carrick as head coach until end of 2025/26 season

Manchester United officially confirmed on Tuesday the appointment of Michael Carrick as the club’s new head coach until the end of the 2025/26 Premier League season, a decision aimed at bringing stability to Old Trafford during a crucial phase of the campaign.

“Michael Carrick is back. Our former captain is our head coach for the remainder of the 2025/26 season,” the club announced via its official X account.

Carrick, who played for Manchester United between 2006 and 2018, returns to the dugout after previously serving as interim manager in 2021 following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Michael Carrick replaces Rúben Amorim at Old Trafford

The former England midfielder takes charge at Old Trafford after the sacking of Rúben Amorim, with the United board opting for a transitional head coach while preparing a long-term sporting project ahead of next season.

Club executives explored several alternatives, including a potential return for Solskjaer, maintaining Darren Fletcher in charge, or fully backing Carrick. Ultimately, the decision was made to appoint Michael Carrick until the end of the season.

Coaching staff confirmed for Carrick’s Manchester United return

Carrick’s backroom staff has been finalized and will include several experienced figures:

Steve Holland, former assistant to Gareth Southgate with England

Jonathan Woodgate, whom Carrick previously worked with at Middlesbrough

Jonny Evans, former Manchester United defender until last season

Travis Binnion, long-time academy coach

This marks Carrick’s second spell as a head coach, having managed Middlesbrough for three seasons before returning to Manchester United.

Manchester United next match: debut vs Manchester City

Michael Carrick is set to make his official debut as Manchester United manager this Saturday in the high-profile Manchester derby against Manchester City.

United currently sit seventh in the Premier League standings, with 32 points, just three points away from the Champions League qualification places. The club is not competing in European competitions this season following a disappointing 2024/25 campaign.

Domestic cup struggles and Darren Fletcher’s interim spell

Manchester United’s domestic cup run has been underwhelming:

League Cup elimination against Grimsby Town (League Two)

FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion

Following Amorim’s departure, Darren Fletcher briefly took charge, securing a draw away to Burnley before suffering FA Cup elimination at Old Trafford. Fletcher will now return to his previous role as head coach of United’s Under-18 team.