Michael Carrick's impressive interim spell sparks a managerial-race twist as key rivals commit elsewhere, boosting his prospects of a permanent Old Trafford role.
Manchester United's appointment of Michael Carrick as Head Coach until the end of the season has gone better than anyone could have predicted.
With the side sitting seventh in the Premier League table amid mixed results under Rúben Amorim and temporary boss Darren Fletcher, the former midfielder started his reign at Old Trafford with stunning wins over Manchester City and Arsenal.
Across his ten games managed so far, Carrick has secured seven wins, two draws, and two losses, guiding the club up to third in the league table and in firm control of Champions League qualification.
Amid United's new hunt for a long-term manager at Old Trafford, many are starting to suggest that Carrick may be the answer to their problems right under their noses.
Carrick handed new boost in manager race
There is no denying that Carrick's form has piqued the interest of many across world football, and according to Sky Sports, the Reds haven't even spoken to other candidates yet.
It is claimed that, although the club are remaining tight-lipped about their plans for the future, the overwhelming feeling is that there is no need to rush into a decision while the team is performing so well under Carrick.
Two of the early front-runners for the position, England's Thomas Tuchel and Brazil's Carlo Ancelotti, have recently signed new contracts to remain in their respective positions until after the 2026 World Cup.
According to Sky Sports, this has further strengthened Carrick's claim to remain as Head Coach until beyond the end of this campaign.
Who else could United appoint?
It's also noted in the report that if United are to appoint someone other than Carrick for the job, they are determined to make that someone of stature and experience.
These are boxes that Ancelotti and Tuchel would have checked, but the others linked to the role, such as Oliver Glanser, Roberto de Zerbi, and Andoni Iraola, are not quite of the same level.
United are also wary of appointing a manager who already has the ability to cope with the magnitude of the job and the media pressure and scutiny that comes with the position – something that many now admit Amorim did not have the capability to do.
While due diligence will continue on other options, United's seeming admission that Carrick is one of the few remaining candidates who tick their boxes provides a huge boost to the 44-year-old's chances.