Michael Carrick’s impressive turnaround at Manchester United has strengthened the case for him to take the job permanently, but not everyone inside the club’s wider football circle is convinced the decision should be automatic.
Since stepping in following Ruben Amorim’s January departure, Carrick has transformed the mood at Old Trafford and, more importantly, the results. Manchester United now sit third in the Premier League with Champions League qualification secured, a scenario that felt unlikely only a few months ago.
Victories over Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool have shifted the conversation dramatically. What began as damage limitation has turned into a genuine managerial audition.
And it is becoming harder to ignore. Carrick has won 10 of his 14 matches in charge, losing only twice since returning to the dugout in January. That form has pushed United firmly back into Europe’s elite places and earned him strong support internally, with players publicly backing his candidacy in recent days.
But former United coach René Meulensteen believes there is still another name who would represent the stronger long-term appointment.
Carrick’s results have changed the conversation
Carrick’s impact has been immediate.
What has stood out most is not simply the results, but the control United have shown in bigger games. Wins against direct rivals have brought confidence back into the squad, and the Liverpool victory last weekend may have been the clearest example of how quickly momentum has shifted.
That said, Meulensteen has warned against allowing short-term form to become the only factor in the club’s thinking.
Speaking to EPL Index, the former United coach acknowledged Carrick’s work but pointed out that performances have not always been convincing.
“The win over Liverpool has definitely helped, but there has still been some shaky performances.
There have been a few results where they have just nicked it at the end.”
— René Meulensteen
It is a fair point.
Results shape perception, but Manchester United have lived this story before.
Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s interim spell produced a similar emotional surge before the long-term picture became more complicated.
That experience will matter in the boardroom.
Meulensteen names Luis Enrique as preferred choice
If United decide against Carrick, Meulensteen believes there is one elite-level alternative who fits the profile better than anyone else.
Luis Enrique.
The Spaniard has again enhanced his reputation after leading Paris Saint-Germain to another Champions League final and remains one of Europe’s most highly regarded coaches.
Meulensteen believes that pedigree matters.
“I’ve seen rumours that Luis Enrique could look to leave PSG at the end of this season and he would definitely fit the bill.” — René Meulensteen, per EPL Index
That would represent a very different direction.
Where Carrick offers familiarity and internal understanding, Enrique would bring proven elite-level experience, major trophy pedigree and a tactical identity that has already delivered at the highest level.
| Michael Carrick (2026) | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches in charge | 14 |
| Wins | 10 |
| Defeats | 2 |
| League position | 3rd |
source: Premier League data – 9 May 2026
The numbers make Carrick’s case strong. But football clubs at United’s level rarely make these decisions on momentum alone.
Key Insights
- Michael Carrick has won 10 of 14 games as Manchester United interim boss
- Champions League qualification has strengthened his permanent case
- René Meulensteen has backed Luis Enrique as the ideal alternative
- United remain cautious after the Solskjær precedent
- A final decision is expected after the season ends
What’s next?
Manchester United’s hierarchy are expected to review the managerial situation once the season finishes, with Carrick’s strong run giving them a real internal option they may not have expected to have in January.
At the same time, the availability of elite coaches could change the equation. If Luis Enrique or other established managers become realistically available, United may feel compelled to explore it.
For Carrick, the opportunity remains alive.
The question is whether it becomes permanent.
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