Michael Carrick’s future as Manchester United manager uncertain, co-owner drops cryptic response: ‘Not going there’

According to reports, Manchester United are unsure about signing Michael Carrick permanently.

Updated on: Mar 15, 2026, 06:12:54 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is impressed with Michael Carrick's performance as interim boss. Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, and since his arrival, United have transformed into the Premier League's most in-form team, bagging 19 points from 24.

Manchester United have climbed to third spot since Michael Carrick's arrival. (AFP)

United have also climbed to third position, triggering Champions League hopes. Although United lost to Newcastle United in their last meeting, Ratcliffe hailed Carrick's impact.

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe on Michael Carrick's future

Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said, "He's doing an excellent job. Yeah, absolutely."

When asked if Carrick would be given the permanent manager tag, Ratcliffe had a cryptic reaction. "Not going there," he said.

Speaking on United's Champions League hopes, he said, "Yes, clearly we're thinking about that. But there's still seven or eight games to go. Still a while yet."

United face Aston Villa in their upcoming fixture on Sunday, who are also facing Lille in the Europa League on Friday. "It's a tough league. Most teams, if not every team, has suffered that in recent times so it's putting things in perspective and putting it in a shape where we can improve", said Ratcliffe.

"We've taken a lot of confidence from [games recently] as a group and what we show we can achieve and how we play. It's an important game, there's no getting away from it. It's a fantastic game. We've put ourselves in a position now where there's an awful lot to play for so really embracing the situation and looking forward to the next game," he added.

Both Aston Villa and United are level on points, with the latter ahead on goal difference. A win will be crucial for both sides.

Possible replacements

According to reports, United are unsure about signing Carrick permanently. The club have shortlisted Unai Emery, who is currently at Aston Villa; Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola; Roberto De Zerbi; Julian Nagelsmann; and Mauricio Pochettino.

Speaking ahead of the Villa game, Carrick said, "I think we're always in a test. It's always about what's next, what you're going to react [like], whether you've won, whether you haven't won. What's going to be the reaction? What's the emotions in the group? What's the motivation for the next game? And driving that forward."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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