Michael Carrick is on the verge of being appointed Manchester United's head coach on a permanent basis after being offered a two-year contract. The former midfielder, who has overseen 10 victories in 15 Premier League matches as interim manager, has secured the club's return to the Champions League.
Contract Details
The agreement includes an option for an additional 12 months and could be finalized before United's Sunday lunchtime fixture against Nottingham Forest. This would provide the clarity the club seeks heading into a busy summer transfer window.
Improved Performance Under Carrick
When Ruben Amorim was dismissed, United languished in sixth place. However, under Carrick's guidance, performances and results have significantly improved. The team now sits third in the Premier League, six points clear of Liverpool with only two matches remaining.
Carrick acknowledged on Friday that his future would become clear "pretty soon." His achievements have earned recognition from chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, who are keen for him to remain at the helm.
"There's two games to go; apart from that there's not much else to say," Carrick said with a smile. "The situation is pretty clear for us all. Same as in preparing for the game. It's a unique football club, a special club. Immensely proud to have come back and been a part of it, as a supporter and ex-player. As a pure supporter, to be in a position to come back and help and move forward was important. To make a big step, and back in the Champions League is good, we're happy with the work we've done so far."
Farewell to Casemiro and De Ligt Update
Regardless of the contract status, Carrick will address supporters after Sunday's match. "That's important anyway – the supporters are a massive part of this club," he said. "We thank them for the season and the support, the last four months for me personally. Regardless of that, for what we've gone through and that connection. The players have felt that."
Casemiro has recovered from an injury that kept him out of the Sunderland match, allowing him a farewell appearance at Old Trafford. Carrick praised the Brazilian: "Since I've been here and met him and worked with him, he's been fantastic for us, for me personally, what he's given us … He's had some ups and downs over the years but to finish so strongly and see that connection with the supporters is great."
Defender Matthijs de Ligt has undergone back surgery to address a problem that has sidelined him since November. The Dutchman is expected to return to first-team action early next season.
