Michael Carrick reveals how he got the managerial role at MU

Michael Carrick received the news of leading MU while driving, his calm reaction surprising many. From a familiar assistant, he stepped up to the hot seat amid immense pressure.

Michael Carrick shared a special moment when he learned he was given the responsibility to manage Manchester United as interim head coach, and it was not the wild celebration many might expect.

The former Red Devils midfielder was appointed on January 13, after the club decided to dismiss Ruben Amorim. Before that, Darren Fletcher only temporarily managed two matches. Notably, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had led the team for three years, was also among the candidates, but after a quick interview round, Carrick was chosen.

In an interview with BBC Sport, Carrick revealed he got the news while driving to Newcastle. “I was in the car when I received the message. Obviously, it was fantastic news, but I stayed quite composed. For some reason, everything felt very natural. I didn’t shout on the highway or celebrate loudly. I just called my wife and said, ‘This is how it is,’” he recalled.

Carrick is no stranger to Old Trafford, having worked on the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Solskjaer. He also admitted that deep down he always hoped one day to have the chance to return and manage the club he had been closely connected to for many years.

Carrick’s start on the sidelines was very impressive. Manchester United won four consecutive matches against Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham, before a dramatic 1-1 draw at West Ham. This positive streak helped the Red Devils climb into the Premier League top four and reignited hope for a Champions League spot.

However, Carrick affirmed he is not the type of hot-tempered coach in the style of Sir Alex Ferguson’s “hairdryer treatment.” “I don’t think I could replicate that, nor do I try. Sir Alex was a genius in managing people, sometimes gentle, sometimes firm, all aimed at maximizing the players’ potential,” Carrick shared.

Appointed on an interim basis, Carrick understands that his long-term future depends on results. However, he does not hide his desire for a lasting commitment. “This is a dream job. I love this club, but more importantly, I am here to do the job well and help the team succeed,” Carrick emphasized.

The road ahead holds many challenges, but with such a promising start, Carrick is showing that he is not just a temporary fix, but potentially a long-term solution for the hot seat at Old Trafford.