What Happened to Michael Carrick?
Michael Carrick is an English professional football coach and former player, best known for his illustrious playing career as a midfielder for Manchester United. After retiring in 2018, he transitioned into coaching, holding roles at Manchester United and as head coach of Middlesbrough. As of May 2026, he is the interim head coach of Manchester United and is set to be appointed permanently after successfully guiding the team to UEFA Champions League qualification.
Quick Answer
Michael Carrick is currently the interim head coach of Premier League club Manchester United and is on the verge of being appointed to the permanent managerial role. He took over in January 2026 after Ruben Amorim's dismissal and has since led the team to a successful turnaround, securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League. He is expected to sign a two-year contract with an option for a third year.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline12 events
Senior Debut for West Ham United
Michael Carrick made his senior debut for West Ham United in a UEFA Intertoto Cup match against Jokerit.
Joins Tottenham Hotspur
After making over 150 appearances for West Ham, Carrick moved to Tottenham Hotspur for a reported fee of £3.5 million.
Transfers to Manchester United
Carrick signed for Manchester United for £14 million, becoming a pivotal figure in their midfield for the next 12 years.
Wins UEFA Champions League with Manchester United
Carrick played a key role in Manchester United's 2008 Champions League triumph, converting his penalty in the shootout against Chelsea.
Testimonial Match at Old Trafford
A testimonial match was held at Old Trafford to celebrate Carrick's 11 years of service to Manchester United, raising funds for his chosen charities.
Announces Retirement from Playing
Carrick confirmed his retirement from professional football at the end of the 2017-18 season, immediately joining Manchester United's coaching staff.
First Caretaker Spell at Manchester United
Following Ole Gunnar Solskjær's departure, Carrick took temporary charge of Manchester United, overseeing three unbeaten matches.
Appointed Middlesbrough Head Coach
Carrick took his first permanent managerial role, becoming head coach of Championship side Middlesbrough, where he significantly improved their league position.
Departs Middlesbrough
Carrick departed Middlesbrough after a successful period, having guided them to promotion play-off contention.
Returns to Manchester United as Interim Head Coach
Michael Carrick was appointed interim head coach of Manchester United following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
Man Utd Reportedly Open Talks for Permanent Role
Reports emerged that Manchester United had opened negotiations with Carrick to offer him the permanent head coach position after his impressive interim spell.
Agreement Reached for Permanent Manchester United Manager Role
Sources confirmed that Michael Carrick finalized an agreement to become Manchester United's new permanent manager, with a contract running until 2028 with an option for a further year.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Michael Carrick, born on July 28, 1981, established himself as one of the most intelligent and understated midfielders of his generation during a distinguished playing career. After starting at West Ham United and a spell at Tottenham Hotspur, he joined Manchester United in 2006, where he spent 12 successful years, winning numerous trophies including five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008. He retired from playing in 2018, having made 464 appearances for United, and immediately transitioned into coaching at the club.
Carrick's coaching journey began as an assistant under José Mourinho and later Ole Gunnar Solskjær at Manchester United. He had his first taste of interim management in November 2021 following Solskjær's departure, leading the team for three unbeaten matches before stepping aside for Ralf Rangnick. This brief stint showcased his potential for leadership.
In October 2022, Carrick took his first permanent managerial role as head coach of Middlesbrough in the Championship. He made a significant impact, transforming the team from relegation contenders to play-off hopefuls with an attractive, possession-based style of play. His tenure at Middlesbrough further honed his managerial skills and reputation.
Carrick returned to Old Trafford in January 2026, initially as interim head coach, following the departure of Ruben Amorim. Manchester United was in a challenging period, but Carrick quickly revitalized the squad. Under his guidance, the team's performances and results dramatically improved, culminating in securing a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League for the 2026-27 season. He has overseen 10 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses in 15 Premier League matches during this interim spell.
As of May 17, 2026, Michael Carrick is widely expected to be appointed as Manchester United's permanent head coach. Reports indicate that he has reached a broad agreement with the club on a two-year contract, with an option for a further 12 months, extending his potential stay until 2029. This decision comes after strong recommendations from the club's football department and approval from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, signaling a new era of stability and a long-term vision under Carrick's leadership.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Michael Carrick made different choices?