Former England defender Micah Richards has issued a warning to Manchester United, suggesting the club could face a fresh managerial dilemma before the season is out.
The Carrick Conundrum
Richards was speaking after Manchester United confirmed Michael Carrick as their manager until the end of the 2025/26 season. The ex-United midfielder, who previously managed Middlesbrough, takes over from the departed Ruben Amorim with immediate effect. His primary task is to steer the team through the remainder of the campaign before a permanent appointment is made in the summer.
While Richards endorsed the short-term move, he highlighted a potential problem for the club's hierarchy. "The only question I would have is what happens if he goes on a really good run?" Richards posed on Sky Sports. He pointed to the existing plans to target a big-name permanent manager, with England boss Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, and Mauricio Pochettino all reportedly on the club's radar.
Champions League Pressure and City Clash
United's board have already set Carrick a clear target for his interim tenure. Club chiefs have communicated to the playing squad that securing a Champions League qualification spot is the non-negotiable aim for the rest of the season.
Currently sitting seventh in the Premier League table, the challenge is significant but not insurmountable. United are just three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool, offering a tangible goal for Carrick to chase. His second spell in charge at Old Trafford begins with a monumental test this weekend: a home clash against arch-rivals Manchester City.
A United Legend's Belief
In his first statement since returning, Carrick expressed his confidence in the squad he inherits. "I know what it takes to succeed here," said the former United midfielder. "I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here. There is still a lot to fight for this season."
He acknowledged the need for an immediate uplift, stating his focus is on helping the players "reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club." Richards supported this view, noting the team's low confidence and the potential for a "new manager bounce" following a disappointing couple of games under caretaker Darren Fletcher.
The stage is now set for a compelling few months at Old Trafford. While the appointment provides short-term stability, Micah Richards has shrewdly identified that Carrick's success could inadvertently create a long-term headache for the United decision-makers, forcing them to choose between a popular in-house candidate and their original, star-studded managerial shortlist.
