MANCHESTER, England – Manchester United have officially announced the appointment of interim boss Michael Carrick as their new permanent manager on a two-year contract extending until the summer of 2028.
Okay News reports that the definitive boardroom decision was finalized on Friday, May 22, 2026. Carrick—who initially took the reins as a temporary fix in January following the sacking of Rúben Amorim—was only meant to steady the ship until the end of the current campaign while club chiefs conducted an exhaustive global search for a high-profile replacement.
However, the 44-year-old former United midfielder completely blew the board away during his audition. He instantly won over the Old Trafford faithful by masterminding a tactical 2–0 victory over local rivals Manchester City in his debut match, quickly following it up with a thrilling 3–2 win against Arsenal to kickstart a dazzling seven-game unbeaten streak. Under his steady guidance, the Red Devils completely transformed their season, winning 11 out of 16 league matches to claw their way back up the table and safely lock down a third-place finish to secure a return to the UEFA Champions League.
Carrick’s incredible turnaround job has not only earned him the permanent hot seat—which reportedly includes an option for an additional 12-month extension—but has also seen him land on the official shortlist for the Premier League Manager of the Year award. With the managerial uncertainty completely swept aside, United’s hierarchy is already shifting focus to rebuilding the squad in Carrick’s image. The new manager faces an immediate midfield overhaul, with veterans Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte widely expected to depart. Carrick will now lead the hunt for fresh talent to partner teenage sensation Kobbie Mainoo, who thoroughly revitalized his form under Carrick to earn a Young Player of the Year nomination, with Nottingham Forest’s breakout star Elliot Anderson currently leading United’s summer transfer wishlist.
