Why INEOS turned to Carrick for Manchester United’s interim role

January 14, 2026 Oliver Obel

INEOS has chosen caution over nostalgia in its latest attempt to steady Manchester United. With the season entering a decisive stretch, the club’s leadership has opted for a short-term appointment designed to restore control rather than reopen familiar managerial chapters.

Michael Carrick has been placed in charge until the end of the 2025/26 campaign, a move that reflects a broader desire for clarity at Old Trafford after years of turbulence following Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.

Amorim’s exit accelerates change

Ruben Amorim’s 14-month spell ended abruptly after a 1–1 draw with Leeds United, a match followed by post-game comments that were interpreted internally as signs of growing frustration. United confirmed his departure the following day.

According to statistics cited by GiveMeSport, Amorim won 15 of his 47 Premier League matches, leaving United with fewer than one win in every three league outings during his tenure.

Darren Fletcher was asked to take charge on an interim basis, overseeing a draw against Burnley and a defeat to Brighton, before INEOS moved quickly to a more settled caretaker solution.

Why Carrick appealed to INEOS

Carrick’s appointment was confirmed shortly after, with INEOS opting for a candidate willing to accept a clearly defined temporary role. Reuters reported that United agreed a deal with Carrick to take charge until the end of the season as the club evaluates longer-term options.

That clarity was viewed internally as a strength rather than a limitation. Carrick also outlined a refreshed coaching group, including Steve Holland and Jonny Evans, details also reported by The Guardian in its coverage of United’s interim plans.

INEOS figures have privately stressed the importance of avoiding short-term decisions that could complicate a wider rebuild.

Why Solskjaer was not chosen

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained a popular option among supporters, but club officials were reluctant to revisit how his previous spell ended. There were also concerns about his recent managerial record, having held only one role since leaving United an inconsistent stint at Besiktas.

Executives were further unconvinced by Solskjaer’s interest in returning with an eye on a permanent appointment, which contrasted with Carrick’s acceptance of a caretaker-only brief.

Solskjaer’s response

Solskjaer was informed of the decision shortly before Carrick’s appointment was made public. While disappointed, his preference had always been to return on a long-term basis.

As GiveMeSport reported, citing The Athletic:

“Though naturally disappointed, sources say his preference would have been to take the job again on a permanent basis, working for the long term rather than only the few months until the summer.”

Despite missing out, Solskjaer has expressed support for Carrick and told United executives that a significant rebuild is required if the club is to consistently challenge for the Premier League’s top four.

Immediate challenges ahead

Carrick, 44, returns to first-team management for the first time since his brief interim spell in late 2021. His opening assignment is a Manchester derby, followed by a trip to face league leaders Arsenal.

For now, INEOS appears focused less on symbolism and more on stability a pragmatic pause in a decade defined by upheaval.

All managerial statistics sourced from Transfermarkt and correct as of January 14, 2026.

Sources: Reuters, The Guardian, GiveMeSport, Transfermarkt