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Manchester United Weigh Saudi Friendly as Carrick and Ronaldo Reunion Looms
An interim appointment opens the door to an unexpected reunion that could take Manchester United far from Old Trafford.
Carrick steps in at Old Trafford
Manchester United confirmed on Tuesday the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim head coach until the end of the season, following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
The decision comes amid a difficult campaign for the Red Devils, who were knocked out early from both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, leaving the club searching for solutions both on and off the pitch.
An unexpected plan takes shape
According to reports from The Sun, United are considering a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia as a way to ease the club’s growing financial strain.
The proposal would not only offer a significant commercial boost, but also set the stage for a high-profile reunion between two iconic figures in United’s recent history: Michael Carrick and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Financial relief and unwanted records
A trip to the Middle East could reportedly generate close to £10 million, a welcome injection after United’s premature exits from domestic competitions.
The recent 1–2 defeat to Brighton marked United’s earliest elimination from both English cups since the 1981–82 season. With no European football to play this year, the club is set to feature in just 40 matches, the lowest total in a campaign for 111 years.
A window opens in the calendar
That reduced schedule leaves United with an unusual amount of downtime: a 13-day break in February and another 10-day gap in March before the international window.
While a Saudi tour is far from confirmed, the scenario could see United face Al-Nassr, bringing them head-to-head with Cristiano Ronaldo once again.
History between Carrick and Cristiano
Carrick and Ronaldo shared the pitch during the Portuguese star’s first spell at United in the 2000s. Years later, Carrick also coached him briefly during his own interim stint in 2021.
Should the friendly go ahead, it would be more than a commercial exercise — it would mark a symbolic reunion between club legends at a moment when United are searching for stability.
With fixtures scarce and finances under pressure, Manchester United are exploring unconventional paths. A Saudi friendly may solve short-term issues, but a Carrick–Ronaldo reunion would carry a deeper resonance for a club in transition.
