In a remarkable shift of opinion, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has publicly revised his stance on Michael Carrick's suitability for the permanent managerial role at Old Trafford. The Irish pundit, known for his forthright views, now believes the interim head coach should be handed the job on a full-time basis following an unexpectedly positive beginning to his tenure.
From Skepticism to Support
The 44-year-old Carrick was unexpectedly thrust into the managerial hotseat mid-season following the abrupt departure of Ruben Amorim. With the Premier League campaign still offering opportunities for European qualification, Carrick's initial impact has clearly made a significant impression on Keane, who had previously expressed reservations about such an appointment.
Impressive Early Results
Carrick's interim period has begun with notable performances and results against formidable opponents Manchester City and Arsenal, suggesting the former midfielder might possess the tactical acumen to steer United through challenging circumstances. These early successes have evidently prompted Keane's reconsideration of Carrick's long-term prospects at the club.
Speaking on the popular football podcast Stick To Football, Keane stated unequivocally: "I hope they give it [the permanent job] to him. I hope they give it to him in the summer."
Challenged by Neville
This declaration prompted immediate challenge from fellow pundit and former teammate Gary Neville, who began: "You said the other day, Roy..." seemingly referencing Keane's previously skeptical position. Keane interrupted this line of questioning, offering a nuanced perspective on his changed viewpoint.
"I don't think it's the right decision, good luck with it," Keane continued, before elaborating: "Yeah, but, I'm sticking to my guns. I've said my piece, I think that he's got the job, and if he gets it in the summer then you go 'listen, good luck to him', but as a caretaker manager, it's a different animal to being manager of United trying to win league titles over the next two, three, four, five years, whatever it might be."
A Pragmatic Assessment
Keane's revised position appears to balance acknowledgment of Carrick's current success with pragmatic concerns about long-term ambitions. "I think you can get a better manager than Carrick, absolutely," he conceded, before adding: "But I think he's doing a good job, perfect timing for him, and even if he doesn't get the United job, these results a bit like Ruud [Van Nistelrooy], he can get another job, probably another Premiership manager."
The Sliding Doors Moment
The former Republic of Ireland international highlighted the unpredictable nature of football management, noting: "But just cause you're doing well at United, it doesn't mean he'll do well at another club. He's got the players back, it's all been sliding doors moments. Great for him, and he's took advantage of it."
This public reconsideration from one of football's most opinionated analysts adds significant weight to Carrick's growing credentials. As Manchester United navigate the remainder of the season, all eyes will remain on whether the interim manager can maintain this promising start and potentially convince the club's hierarchy that he represents the right long-term solution.
