All statistics unveiled
It was another disappointing weekend for Manchester United, as the Red Devils exited the FA Cup after a loss to Brighton. This defeat marks a potential for their shortest season since 1915, with early eliminations from the EFL Cup by Grimsby and no European football this year. Sunday’s game is likely to be interim manager Darren Fletcher’s final match, as the club prepares to appoint a new interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Rúben Amorim was sacked from his managerial position after 14 months in charge on January 5.
Former Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has reportedly become the favorite to step in as the club’s caretaker manager. Club officials are aiming to finalize this appointment ahead of the players’ return to training on Wednesday. Although a decision has yet to be confirmed, discussions with the 44-year-old have progressed. Carrick previously served as United’s temporary boss for three games following Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s dismissal in 2021, and his only full-time managerial experience was in the Championship with Middlesbrough. Transfermarkt analyzes Carrick’s managerial record to assess his suitability for the role at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick’s Managerial Statistics
Carrick began his full-time senior management career in 2022, when Middlesbrough appointed him at the age of 41. Upon his arrival at the Riverside Stadium, the team was positioned 21st in the Championship standings. Carrick made an impressive start, accumulating 40 points in his first 17 matches, rapidly elevating the team in the league. Middlesbrough ultimately finished fourth that season but were defeated in the playoff semi-finals by Coventry. His initial success sparked optimism regarding Carrick’s future as a manager.
However, in his second season, performance declined, and Middlesbrough ended the campaign in eighth place in the Championship after a disappointing second half. The 2024/25 season did not show improvement either, as Middlesbrough finished 10th, again missing out on the playoffs. In June, Carrick was dismissed and subsequently replaced by Rob Edwards.
The new manager has successfully guided that Boro team to second place in the league before taking the Wolves job late last year. They remain in a strong position, aiming for automatic promotion under new head coach Kim Hellberg. While the improvements since Carrick’s departure may cast doubts on his tenure, his significant turnaround during his first season should not be overlooked. This immediate impact may be a factor recognized by the Manchester United management, who are also seeking a short-term boost in performance.
