Michael Carrick has returned to Manchester United as interim head coach until the end of the season, stepping in after the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last week. Speaking after his appointment was confirmed on Tuesday night, Carrick described the move as deeply emotional, saying the club “never left” him despite years away, underlining the powerful connection that continues to define his relationship with Old Trafford.

Carrick’s bond with United was forged over a glittering playing career that saw him make 464 appearances between 2006 and 2018. During that period, he won five Premier League titles and lifted the Champions League in 2008, becoming a central figure in one of the club’s most successful modern eras—a legacy that still commands immense respect among supporters.

This is not Carrick’s first taste of leadership at United. He previously served as caretaker manager in November 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s exit, overseeing an unbeaten three-match run that included wins over Villarreal and Arsenal and a draw with Chelsea. His decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo at Stamford Bridge was widely viewed as evidence of his calm authority and tactical confidence.

After leaving Old Trafford, Carrick spent more than two years managing Middlesbrough, guiding the club to the Championship play-offs in 2023 and the Carabao Cup semi-finals in 2024. That spell, sources say, played a key role in United’s decision to turn to him again, with his reputation as a hands-on coach reportedly giving him the edge over other options such as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ruud van Nistelrooy—a clear nod to his growing credibility.

Carrick has assembled a diverse and experienced coaching team, including former England assistant Steve Holland, ex-United defender Jonny Evans, Middlesbrough colleague Jonathan Woodgate, and under-21s coach Travis Binnion. Darren Fletcher, who briefly held caretaker duties, will return to youth development. Carrick stressed the importance of blending perspectives and experience, describing his staff as central to shaping the club’s immediate direction.

The former midfielder takes charge of a United side currently seventh in the Premier League, three points off the top four, with an immediate test awaiting him. His first match will be the Manchester derby against Manchester City this weekend, followed by a trip to league leaders Arsenal on January 25. While acknowledging United’s history, Carrick insisted the focus is firmly on rebuilding momentum and finishing the season strongly, as the club prepares to appoint a permanent head coach in the summer—a defining moment for his interim reign.