Michael Carrick has enjoyed two wins from his first two games as Manchester United interim boss.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has suggested that United might consider appointing Michael Carrick permanently if his initial success with the club continues. In his opening two matches since taking temporary charge until the end of the season, Carrick has guided the team to victories against both Manchester City and Arsenal.
These results have propelled them to fourth position in the Premier League standings and sparked discussion about a possible permanent role. However, United legend Gary Neville has cast doubt on whether the former midfielder possesses the qualities needed to manage the side on a long-term basis.
Speaking on the Stick to Football Podcast, he said: “Michael’s not got the job because of his managerial record at Middlesbrough, he’s got the job because of his knowledge of United and that Ruud (Van Nistelrooy) and Ole (Gunnar Solskjaer) had already been in before a little bit more than him maybe, and there was a feeling of ‘let’s have something fresh’.
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“So Michael’s got the job because basically of being in the right place at the right time, that is not the criteria of being a Manchester United manager.”
Keane then alluded to what he believes could unfold based on previous occurrences. “How many times have we seen managers going in, and doing a job for a good month or two, then they get the job and they’re gone a few months later?” He asked.
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“It’s bizarre, it’s just the nature of football. A new voice can lift players for a few months, but if you’re on about he’s going to be the manager for the next two, three four years, looking after all the scouting stuff, representing the club and competing with Pep and all these managers.”
In a playful tone, Neville then turned to fellow pundit and Arsenal legend Ian Wright and quipped: “The right path for Michael, might just be at the end of the season when Arsenal don’t win the league and he goes there.”
As the discussion about Carrick carried on, former Lioness Jill Scott encouraged United fans to savour the current form and not get ahead of themselves. “Now, if you’re a United fan, just enjoy one game a week and you’re winning,” she said.
“Don’t even think about the manager.”
United will aim for a hat-trick of victories under Carrick when they welcome Fulham to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon (2pm kick-off). The following week sees them hosting Tottenham in Saturday’s early kick-off.
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Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
