Michael Carrick Appointed Manchester United Interim Head Coach
13 January 2026 – Manchester United has confirmed Michael Carrick as the interim head coach of the men’s first team for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
Carrick, who played 464 games for the club, won five Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, and the FIFA Club World Cup during his playing career.
He joined the first-team coaching staff after retiring in 2018, working under managers including Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Speaking after his appointment, Carrick said: “Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour. I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club.”
He added: “I have worked with a number of the players already and have obviously continued to watch the team closely in recent years. I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here.”
Carrick emphasised the team’s goals for the season: “There is still a lot to fight for this season. We are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”
Jason Wilcox, United’s director of football, praised the appointment: “Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United.
He is ready to lead our talented and determined group of players for the remainder of the season as we continue to build the club towards regular and sustained success.”
The club also thanked Darren Fletcher for his recent caretaker role: “We would like to place on record our gratitude to Darren Fletcher for his leadership during the last week.
He will remain as lead coach of the Under-18s, playing a vital role in developing players ready to perform in a winning Manchester United first team.”
Carrick will be supported by Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion, Jonny Evans, and Craig Mawson.
He previously managed Middlesbrough for two-and-a-half years, returning to Old Trafford with extensive coaching experience and deep knowledge of the club’s culture.
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