Michael Carrick returns to Manchester United as interim manager
Michael Carrick has revealed returning to Manchester United gave him “butterflies in a really good way” as he prepares to take charge of the club until the end of the campaign, reports BritPanorama.
The 44-year-old, whose appointment was confirmed on Tuesday evening, spoke of his deep emotional bond with Old Trafford despite spending time away from the club. Carrick stated, “It’s been part of my life for so long. The fact that I left the club for a number of years, but it’s never left me.”
His family remains closely connected to the Red Devils, holding season tickets and attending every match. “I love the place,” he added, describing the role as “a huge buzz.”
Currently, United occupy seventh spot in the Premier League table, with European qualification the primary objective following early exits from both domestic cup competitions. Carrick faces an immediate baptism of fire, with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City visiting Old Trafford on Saturday before a trip to league leaders Arsenal the following weekend.
Carrick commented, “The big games are what we all live for. Some are more challenging than others so we’ll go for it head-on.”
The former England international expressed complete faith in his squad’s capabilities, stating he has “total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here.” Home fixtures against Fulham and Tottenham follow the daunting opening encounters, offering opportunities to build momentum during the second half of the season.
Carrick was chosen ahead of fellow club legends Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ruud van Nistelrooy, with United seeking someone possessing intimate knowledge of the club to accelerate the transition following Ruben Amorim’s departure after 14 months. “Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour,” Carrick remarked.
The former midfielder, who made 464 appearances for United between 2006 and 2018, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League, has issued a clear challenge to his underperforming squad. “Hopefully we can play a really exciting type of football. I want to be off my seat and enjoying watching the boys play.”
Carrick will meet his players for the first time on Wednesday morning at Carrington ahead of Saturday’s derby clash. He has assembled a backroom team blending experience and club knowledge to support his tenure; Steve Holland joins as his number two, while Jonathan Woodgate completes the external appointments, having worked alongside Carrick previously.
In an environment where expectation and pressure intertwine, Carrick’s return highlights the weight of legacy but also the challenge ahead. Carrying the history of Old Trafford, he must navigate the present’s complexities and inspire a squad eager for revitalization.
