Report: Carrick likely to be recommended as Manchester United manager.

Manchester United’s interim coach Michael Carrick is expected to be put forward to minority owner Jim Ratcliffe as the club’s permanent manager after a strong spell as caretaker.

BBC Sport reported on Wednesday that senior executives, including chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, have identified Carrick as the leading candidate to replace Ruben Amorim, who was dismissed in January following a difficult tenure.

According to The Athletic, United are preparing to present Carrick as their preferred choice to Ratcliffe later this week. If he receives approval, formal negotiations are expected to commence before an official announcement.

Since taking temporary charge on 13 January, the 44‑year‑old has overseen a dramatic reversal of fortunes. United have won 10 of their 15 matches under his guidance, suffered only two defeats, and have risen from seventh to third in the Premier League, securing a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

No other club has amassed more Premier League points than United during Carrick’s tenure, with notable victories recorded against rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.

During his time in charge, Carrick has repeatedly emphasized the need for stability and long‑term planning.

“We have to look at the bigger picture and keep building every day,” he said at a recent press conference.

“The focus is always on improving the players, improving the team and making sure the club moves in the right direction,” he added.

The former midfielder, who also served briefly as interim manager after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure in 2021, has impressed officials not only with on‑field results but also with his behind‑the‑scenes work.

Internally, he has been praised for his commitment to youth development and his involvement in recruitment discussions as United seek long‑term stability following a turbulent period under Amorim.

United evaluated several other candidates for the role, but alternatives such as Thomas Tuchel and Luis Enrique are reported to have remained committed to their current positions.

Carrick’s side will finish the 2025‑26 campaign with fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion later this month, as expectations grow that he may soon be confirmed as the club’s permanent manager.