Rooney warns Man United against appointing Luis Enrique

Wayne Rooney has urged Manchester United to resist the temptation of appointing another “world-class” name and instead back Michael Carrick to continue as manager.

The United legend believes pursuing a high-profile coach such as Luis Enrique would repeat a pattern that has already failed at Old Trafford. Carrick, currently overseeing first-team duties on an interim basis following Ruben Amorim’s departure earlier this year, has impressed Rooney both on and off the pitch.

Carrick has overseen five Premier League matches, winning four — including notable victories over Arsenal and Manchester City — and drawing the other against West Ham United. The unbeaten run has kept United firmly in the Champions League places and restored stability after a turbulent spell.

Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney made his position clear.

“We talk about Luis Enrique and stuff. And I think [United have] been there and tried different managers, between Mourinho and Van Gaal, then we saw the likes of Ten Hag and Amorim, which don't work.

“I just think for me, it kind of makes sense [to stick with Carrick]. I felt that from the minute he was mentioned of going in… I just think he's a real calming influence.”

Rooney’s argument centres on continuity rather than prestige. Manchester United have cycled through established managerial names in recent years, yet sustained progress has proved elusive.

A key factor in Rooney’s support is Carrick’s renewed emphasis on the academy pathway.

The former midfielder has reintegrated Kobbie Mainoo into the first-team fold after he drifted out of favour under Amorim. Rooney, who has two sons in United’s academy, praised the restoration of links between youth levels and senior staff.

“I've got two boys in the academy… there was a massive disconnect from the academy and the first team,” Rooney said.

“Immediately, what we've seen is this connection come back together, which Man United was known for. It was known to be a family club, and Michael's done that actually in a very short period of time.”

Having followed United’s structural shifts over the past decade, the academy-to-first-team bridge has often been cited as central to the club’s identity. However, it remains too early to determine whether short-term stability can evolve into long-term competitiveness.

United’s hierarchy are expected to make a final decision on the managerial position at the end of the season. Carrick’s results over the remaining fixtures will likely shape that outcome.

Much will depend on whether performances remain consistent against direct rivals. A strong finish could strengthen the case for continuity over another high-profile appointment.

Should Manchester United prioritise continuity under Carrick, or pursue a proven Champions League winner?