Manchester United have officially announced the appointment of Michael Carrick as permanent head coach. It had been widely expected that Carrick would stay on in his role amid a sensational tenure as interim boss.
Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, and INEOS tasked him with qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League. He’s done more than that, lifting the mood around the club, overseeing 11 wins and two defeats in 16 games and improving players’ performances.
Now that the 44-year-old has finally been confirmed as the permanent head coach, attention turns to this summer’s transfer window and next season. There are four objectives he should be looking to achieve.
Win a trophy
The first one is to try to kickstart his permanent reign by guiding United to a trophy. That doesn’t have to be the Premier League title or the Champions League, given this team is still in transition.
Amorim failed to capitalise on the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his tumultuous 14-month reign. Carrick should recognise how helpful winning one of the domestic cup competitions will be in taking steps towards returning the club to its glory days.
Image Carrick lifting the Carabao Cup in February 2027, while he looks to ensure United are battling in the title picture. It’s a building block that can lead to more success in the coming years.
Rebuild midfield
Casemiro is departing and he will be a huge loss for the club given his contributions this season alone. The Brazilian has been in inspired form under Carrick, and the loss of his experience will need addressing.
Carrick must ensure he has input over the midfield overhaul, and reports suggest he’s already involved in planning for the transfer window. While Elliot Anderson looks to be Manchester City-bound, the likes of Aurelien Tchouameni, Carlos Baleba and Mateus Fernandes are targets worth pursuing.
Take United back to title race
No United fan is realistically thinking Carrick can win the Premier League in his first season. But stranger things have happened, and you can’t completely rule it out, especially with Pep Guardiola leaving City.
Carrick’s impact since returning to the Old Trafford dugout has been remarkable, and he has beaten both Arsenal and City. He might not be a title-winning coach, but he certainly has the ability to propel the Reds back into the title conversation.
That’s why his two-year deal with the option of a further year is a wise call from INEOS. Let’s see where the club stands in 2028 and whether a more proven name is needed to get the team over the finish line.
Advance to Champions League knockout stages
United’s return to the Champions League needs to be impactful, and that means at least advancing beyond the league phase. The Reds haven’t competed in the competition since the new format came into effect.
Not only does making it to the knockout rounds make a statement that the club is returning to its best. It also gives the Red Devils a chance to secure more funds through prize money with each round.
