Manchester United agree in principle on Carrick as temporary manager until season end, sources claim

Manchester United have come to an agreement in principle to install Michael Carrick as temporary manager through to the close of the campaign, according to reports on Tuesday.

The ex-midfielder was seen heading into the Carrington training facility, and his position is expected to receive official approval later today.

Carrick earlier enjoyed an unbeaten run across three matches while serving as acting head coach at Old Trafford back in 2021.

Now 44 years old, he secured 12 significant honours during his dozen seasons as a player with United, and he took up the managerial role at Middlesbrough in October 2022.

In his debut year, Carrick led Middlesbrough into the Championship promotion playoffs, yet he parted ways with the club in June following a 10th place finish in the second division.

United had held talks with ex-player and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer regarding a possible comeback to the team.

The club parted with Ruben Amorim just last week, concluding a poor 14 month period under the Portuguese tactician.

Acting manager Darren Fletcher managed a 2-2 stalemate versus struggling Burnley in the Premier League alongside a 2-1 loss to Brighton in the FA Cup.

Being knocked out of both home cup tournaments right away, combined with no European fixtures, leaves United facing just 40 games this term, the fewest since 1914/1915.

The 20 time English title holders sit seventh in the Premier League table, yet only three points adrift of fourth spot and one point off fifth placed Brentford.

Securing a top four position would ensure re entry into the rewarding Champions League, while fifth place should suffice given the solid showings by English teams across Europe this season.

United face crosstown opponents Manchester City on Saturday, which could mark Carricks opening match at the helm.