The search for a steady hand has led back to a club legend. On Monday, January 12, 2026, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Michael Carrick has "accepted all conditions" of Manchester United’s contract proposal to become the club’s interim manager for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
Following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last week and a disappointing week of results under caretaker Darren Fletcher—including a 2–1 FA Cup exit to Brighton—the INEOS-led hierarchy has opted for the 44-year-old Carrick to navigate the club through its current crisis.
The "Carrick" Deal: Details of the Return
While the club board, led by CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox, initially interviewed Ole Gunnar Solskjær, they reportedly favored Carrick’s tactical evolution during his recent three-year stint at Middlesbrough.
The Role: Interim Manager until June 2026.
The Mission: Secure a Top 5 finish to ensure Champions League qualification. United currently sit 7th, but are only one point behind 5th-placed Brentford.
The Staff: Carrick is expected to bring Jonathan Woodgate into his coaching team. Darren Fletcher will likely remain part of the first-team setup to provide continuity.
First Game: The "baptism of fire" begins this Saturday, Jan 17, with a high-stakes Manchester Derby at Old Trafford.
The "Rooney" Rumor: A United Reunion?
In a viral moment following the news, Wayne Rooney expressed his absolute willingness to join Carrick’s staff during a podcast appearance:
"Of course I would [join]. It’s a no-brainer. The club needs people who understand what it takes to be a Man United player." While no official role has been offered to Rooney yet, the prospect of a "Class of '08" coaching ticket has already energized a demoralized fanbase.
The January "War Chest"
With the contract signed, the focus shifts to the transfer market. Reports suggest the board will back Carrick with a £20–30 million budget to address the midfield. The primary target has been identified as Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal), who could provide the technical stability Carrick feels is missing in the current engine room.
The Verdict: By choosing Carrick over Solskjær, INEOS has prioritized a coach with fresh experience as a "Number One." Carrick’s calm authority and previous unbeaten record as a United caretaker provide a glimmer of hope for a fanbase that has endured its most turbulent 14 months in history.