Not Carrick, the legend points directly to Manchester United's future manager

Roy Keane has reiterated that Diego Simeone is the ideal manager to restore Manchester United, even though Michael Carrick is currently delivering strong performances.

Manchester United is going through a relatively stable phase under the interim leadership of Michael Carrick. Since taking charge, Carrick has led the Red Devils to a positive streak, including wins against Man City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham before drawing with West Ham.

His approach is praised for its simplicity, clarity, and trust in a consistent core, exemplified by giving chances to Kobbie Mainoo and limiting rotation when the team is performing well.

Andy Townsend commented: “I think Michael Carrick has done very well since taking over… There is a simplicity and effectiveness in what he’s done, and he’s doing it modestly.” He also believes that maintaining the winning lineup is a sensible choice rather than making too many changes while things are running smoothly.

However, while Carrick is gaining credit, calls for appointing a world-class manager continue to surface. Roy Keane has been a supporter of Diego Simeone for many years and remains firm in his stance. On the show Stick to Football, the former MU captain emphasized: “I’ve said this for years, I want to see Simeone from Atletico Madrid come to Old Trafford.”

Keane believes the strong personality of the Argentine tactician will bring real change: “I think he would go there and say: ‘This is how we work.’ No guarantees, but I just want to see his character and achievements.”

Andy Townsend shares the view that MU needs a coach who has worked with top stars and is familiar with pressure from fans and management. He stated: “Of all the managers, the one I most want to see leading United is Diego Simeone.”

Although acknowledging Simeone’s pragmatic style may not please fans who love attractive football, Townsend argues MU currently needs discipline and strict demands more than flashy play. “You need someone ready to consistently impose tough demands on players… Only Simeone has those qualities.”

Meanwhile, Simeone is experiencing a turbulent season with Atletico Madrid. His team has impressive wins, like the 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, but also heavy defeats in La Liga. Nevertheless, Keane is not convinced by critics who say Atletico only defend. “The idea that he only plays defensively… they can play football too.”

As MU considers candidates like Ancelotti, Luis Enrique, and Nagelsmann, Simeone’s name continues to be mentioned as a choice with personality and identity. Carrick is doing well, but according to Keane, if MU wants strong and lasting change, they need a true “maverick” on the coaching bench.