Michael Carrick is thriving as Manchester United’s caretaker head coach. Since replacing Ruben Amorim last month, he has guided the team to 13 points from five matches, lifting them to fourth in the Premier League. The run included consecutive wins over title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, which earned the 44-year-old Premier League manager of the month honors.
Much attention has focused on Carrick’s trust in 20-year-old academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. The midfielder went from not starting a single league match under Amorim to becoming a fixture in the team. In an in-depth interview with Mark Chapman, Carrick praised Mainoo as a “huge talent” and highlighted the club’s 88-year tradition of including an academy graduate in every matchday squad. Carrick also discussed his own future, with his contract running only until the end of the season.
enjoying the opportunity
Carrick described his move from television punditry to management as a natural step. “I really enjoyed watching football from a different perspective,” he said. “But this opportunity was too good to turn down.”
He recalled receiving the initial phone call while driving to Newcastle. “It was a nice surprise. I stayed calm. Somehow, it felt right,” Carrick said. “I’ve been at the club for so long that part of me always hoped this chance would come along.”
He called his wife to share the news. “I didn’t celebrate wildly on the motorway. I just said, ‘this is what’s happened, this is where we’re at.’”
assembling the right staff
Carrick immediately focused on putting the right backroom team in place. “Assessing needs, finding the right staff, that was my first task,” he said. “It all had to happen in a short period, and I’m delighted with how it came together.”
He emphasized support and trust. “My first message to the players was: ‘I’m here to support you, to help you, to push you.’ Our goal is good results, but the method matters.”
When asked if the team had underachieved, Carrick was measured. “It’s not about what they did before. The focus was on the talented group in front of me and how to improve things quickly.”
taking on massive games
The first fixtures under Carrick were against Manchester City and Arsenal. “Playing City at home, the atmosphere was incredible,” he said. “Feeling that energy from the fans and players was unforgettable. That connection has been the most satisfying part so far.”
He brought in Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson to form a balanced staff. “Each brings something unique. Steve’s experience, Jonathan’s loyalty, Jonny’s player knowledge, Travis’s academy expertise, and Craig in goalkeeping. Together, we cover all bases.”
Carrick values staff input. “They challenge me. I’m not right all the time. We all push each other and share strong opinions to find the right direction.”
the academy remains central
Carrick described the academy as vital to the club. “I remember being a young player here. Giving a debut to a homegrown talent is a proud moment. We strive to keep producing players and providing opportunities.”
He emphasized the club’s unbroken record of including an academy graduate in matchday squads since the 1930s. “It’s a huge source of pride and a tradition we must protect. The academy shapes this club, and we aim to carry it on.”
Carrick is confident in the academy’s future. “It has consistently developed players year after year. Our work extends beyond results. We nurture young people and prepare them for long careers, even if they move elsewhere.”
kobbie mainoo and trust
Carrick has worked with Kobbie Mainoo since the player was 13 or 14. “I’ve seen him develop over years. What he’s achieved at such a young age is incredible. He has a natural rhythm and talent that we trust.”
He allows young players room to grow. “I give them small guidance, but I let them find their flow on the pitch. Kobbie is a fantastic player with huge potential.”
connection over tactics
Carrick prioritizes relationships over rigid tactics. “Getting the best from people requires respect and connection. Without that, technical plans lose value. Human trust drives performance.”
He has not needed to raise his voice yet. “Timing matters for emotions in management. You must pick the right moment to inspire the right reaction.”
He admires Sir Alex Ferguson’s balance of support and pressure. “I’ve seen his methods in action. He got the best out of players in many ways, using support and challenge together.”
learning from experience
Carrick draws lessons from past managers. “Experience is a resource. Sir Alex had the biggest impact on me, but I continue to learn from all opportunities. Staff help me expand my knowledge.”
He remains undistracted by former players turned pundits. “It doesn’t bother me. We focus on the players and support them to handle today’s football environment.”
enjoying the ultimate role
Carrick described his role as “the ultimate job.” “I love what I do. I feel privileged to be here. I focus on building a successful team and long-term progress.”
He plans for the future regardless of tenure. “I give everything while I’m here, always considering the club’s long-term benefit.”
Carrick radiates enthusiasm. “The staff are fantastic, the players are unbelievable, and the support from the city and fans is incredible. I love coming in every day.”
