Michael Carrick is reportedly optimistic about securing the permanent manager’s position at Manchester United, having guided the club to a guaranteed return to the Champions League with three Premier League matches still to play. Carrick, 44, took over as caretaker manager in January following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim and has overseen a significant turnaround in the Red Devils’ fortunes.

When Carrick stepped into the dugout, Manchester United languished in sixth place in the Premier League standings. Under his stewardship, the team has surged, now on course to finish third in the league. This impressive climb was underscored by a crucial 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, a result that moved United six points clear of their rivals and cemented their place in Europe’s elite club competition for next season.

The impact of Carrick’s tenure is stark:

• United were sixth in the Premier League when he took charge.
• They are now on course to finish third.
• The club secured Champions League qualification with three games remaining.

Since January, United have accumulated five more points than any other Premier League team, excluding Manchester City, who have played two fewer games.

Read also: Is a healthy Saka the key to Arsenal’s title push?

According to GIVEMESPORT, Carrick also has the backing of senior figures within the dressing room. Key players, including captain Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, and Matheus Cunha, are reportedly keen for Carrick to remain as the Red Devils’ boss. However, no player is involved in the formal managerial selection process, with United’s leadership ultimately making the sole decision on who will take the reins permanently.

United’s ongoing managerial search

Despite Carrick’s strong performance and the team’s resurgence, Manchester United’s leadership is still planning to speak with other candidates as part of their comprehensive selection process. No talks have been held with external candidates yet, and Carrick himself will need to go through a formal interview process.

Several high-profile names have been linked with the Old Trafford hot seat since Amorim’s departure. England manager Thomas Tuchel was considered early on, but he has since committed his future to the Three Lions beyond the 2026 World Cup. Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has also been discussed internally by United chiefs. Iraola is set to leave the Vitality Stadium at the end of the season when his contract expires, having led Bournemouth on an impressive 15-match unbeaten run in the Premier League, placing them in a Europa League qualifying spot with three games to go. However, no official approach has been made for him.

Furthermore, Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has admirers within Old Trafford. Nagelsmann, who is contracted to Germany after the 2026 World Cup, is reportedly open to a club job, though nothing is currently progressing on that front.

Read also: Manchester United eye Ederson as Atletico Madrid deal falters

Sources: www.givemesport.com

Read also: Manchester City vs. Everton match is not enough as Arsenal seize title initiative