OFFICIAL: Manchester United announce Michael Carrick as new head coach

Manchester United have announced that Michael Carrick will take over as the new head team coach until the end of the season, taking over from Darren Fletcher.

The Red Devils made the announcement today. January 13th, after Carrick was selected from a list of options. The former midfielder is expected to be in charge until the summer, when the club will be expected to make a proper search for a new permanent coach.

During his unveiling, the former England international expressed a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to get the club back on track.

“Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour,” he said, per the Red Devils website. “I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing.

“I have worked with a number of the players already and have obviously continued to watch the team closely in recent years. I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here.

“There is still a lot to fight for this season; we are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”

As Pulse Sports reported, Manchester United reached an agreement on all conditions with former midfielder Michael Carrick to become head coach, preferring him to other candidates.

Manchester United’s managerial vacancy opened on January 5th when the club sacked Ruben Amorim after 14 months in charge, following a string of poor results and a controversial public criticism of club management. 

United were linked with a range of managerial targets as replacements, including Enzo Maresca, Gareth Southgate, Xavi Hernandez, Oliver Glasner and a possible return for former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær.

Out of those options, Michael Carrick emerged as the leading candidate, with the club wanting a temporary fix, delaying the hiring of a new permanent manager until the summer.