Michael Carrick‘s interim stint as Manchester United’s head coach has sparked a major debate. After Ruben Amorim’s early January 2026 departure, Carrick stepped in. Now, with a string of wins and the club sitting fourth, many wonder if the search for a permanent successor is already settled. ⚽ His performance has put United’s recruitment team in a tricky spot.
Carrick’s Unbeaten Run Reshapes United’s Season
Carrick took charge on January 13, 2026. Since then, the team’s form has turned around completely. They’ve grabbed four Premier League wins in a row. These include big victories against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham. Then came a solid 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur. This eight-game unbeaten run is the first such streak since February 2022. Across both his managerial spells at United, Carrick’s record stands at six wins, one draw, and no losses. The Premier League nominated him for January’s Manager of the Month. He’s got United firmly in a Champions League spot.
Tactical Tweaks Pay Dividends
Carrick didn’t just win games; he made important changes. Kobbie Mainoo is back in the midfield. And Bruno Fernandes now plays higher up the pitch. This gives Casemiro additional support. Goal.com reported these adjustments have improved Casemiro’s performances. The team has accumulated more points this season under Carrick than throughout the entirety of the previous campaign. Their primary objective: secure Champions League qualification via a top-four finish. Carrick has them on track for that.
Carrick Stays Grounded Despite Success
Despite the team’s upward trajectory, Carrick remains calm. He isn’t getting too carried away. He knows the club plans a full recruitment process. Director of football Jason Wilcox is overseeing that search for a permanent manager. The club even consulted former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before selecting Carrick for the interim role. Carrick understands the temporary nature of his position.
“Nothing’s changed, no, to be honest. It’s not going to change what I do, or how I feel about it.”
Carrick told reporters. He added,
“We want to be successful. I want the club to be successful beyond the end of the season: if that’s me, if that’s somebody else. At this stage, I can’t control that, and we’ll see what happens.”
Sky Sports covered his comments. He suggested decisions shouldn’t be knee-jerk. Bruno Fernandes saw this potential in Carrick years ago. Fernandes noted Carrick’s abilities back in 2021. That’s when Carrick achieved three wins and a draw in a short spell as interim. Goal.com also highlighted Fernandes’ early recognition.
What’s Next for United and Carrick
United faces a test coming up. Carrick’s side plays West Ham away on Tuesday. After that, a 12-day break follows. They’re out of the FA Cup early. This gives him extended time with the squad. The club’s objective remains clear. Secure Champions League qualification. Carrick has them on track to achieve it. The board must weigh his current form against their long-term vision. It’s a tricky situation. Do they stick with what works right now? Or do they gamble on someone new?
Ishaan Singh 
Baishali Karmakar 
Govind Singh