Bruno Fernandes backs “amazing” Michael Carrick as Manchester United decision on permanent job nears
Interim manager Carrick has thrust himself into contention for a permanent role at Old Trafford after securing a Champions League place.
Bruno Fernandes has hailed Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick, who club bosses have reportedly offered a two-year contract as they look to safeguard the Red Devils’ short- and mid-term future.
Instant impact at Old Trafford
When Carrick was appointed as Ruben Amorim’s replacement midway through January, it was made clear he would only be in the dugout until the end of the season. The former midfielder, however, almost immediately threw his hat in the ring to become United’s next permanent manager thanks to an instant impact in results.
Carrick oversaw victories against Manchester City and Arsenal in his first two Premier League fixtures and has since guided the team to further triumphs over Chelsea and Liverpool. A perfect record against the Premier League’s biggest hitters, at least on paper.
United have won 10, drawn three and lost two of their last 15 league games. Since Carrick took over, no other club has collected more than their 33 points.
Pressure building on United decision-makers
For many, a club that has struggled for stability since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 would be foolish to fix something that does not appear to be broken, even with bigger, more high-profile names rumored to be in the running to become the next permanent Manchester United manager.
Fernandes makes his view clear
Fernandes has been United’s standout player as they secured their return to the Champions League, winning the Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year award, as well as the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award, voted for by fans.
And the Portuguese star appears to be backing Carrick to continue in his current role beyond the end of the season, when his contract expires.
“Michael has a great character to become a top manager,” Fernandes said in an interview with the FWA. “The qualities everyone could see it as a player. When, as a player, you can think and see the game the way he was doing it, you can do it from the bench too.
“Obviously, it’s a different thing but I think when you have that calmness on the pitch, that smartness and the way he was playing, you could see he could be a potential manager. He’s showing that.”
Middlesbrough spell in hindsight
Carrick’s only managerial experience prior to this season was with Championship club Middlesbrough, where he spent just under three years. After failing to reach the promotion playoffs in 2024-25, Carrick was sacked, something Fernandes believes may have ultimately benefited United.
“He did very well at Middlesbrough, but it did not work out this season for him. Maybe luckily, because he became available for United and he had the chance to come back to the club, and he did an amazing job with us until the end of the season.”
A decision looming at United
Fernandes diplomatically acknowledged that United’s hierarchy may still choose to go in a different direction, but the warmth of his comments suggests he would welcome Carrick staying on after a strong four-month spell in charge.
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