Carrick in Frame for Permanent United Role as He Checks Key Box for INEOS

Michael Carrick finds himself squarely in the conversation to land the Manchester United hot seat on a permanent basis come the summer, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.

United's interim manager has made quite the impression since taking over following Ruben Amorim's departure a fortnight ago, particularly with that stunning 2-0 dismantling of Manchester City—a result that could easily have been more convincing on another evening.

Ornstein, speaking on The Transfers Podcast with Duncan Castles, stressed that while Carrick will naturally enter discussions depending on his performance, the club should approach their managerial search methodically rather than rushing to a decision. The Athletic journalist noted that United's process should involve speaking to available candidates, assessing those currently employed where feasible, and evaluating data, tactical approaches, and profiles.

The precedent from United's last managerial appointment saw Thomas Tuchel and Erik ten Hag emerge as the leading contenders, with Frank Lampard and Mauricio Pochettino also under consideration. That same thorough approach should apply this time around, with weeks and months available to conduct proper due diligence.

Carrick's pathway to the job isn't straightforward. Having been sacked by Championship outfit Middlesbrough earlier in the campaign, he'll need to demonstrate his credentials at Old Trafford. Yet Ornstein believes his pedigree—combining previous experience in a United coaching capacity with his work at the Riverside—warrants serious consideration, much as Kieran McKenna was previously in the frame.

"Carrick could be in the mix, but that doesn't mean he'll get the job," Ornstein cautioned. "It's very much a case of wait and see how it unfolds."

The Athletic journalist also highlighted what appears to be a significant factor in the club's thinking: the value of appointing someone with genuine ties to United. Restoring morale and confidence within the club matters, even if it sounds superficial on the surface. The mood has visibly improved since Amorim's exit, though Ornstein was quick to note this carries no disrespect toward the Portuguese boss, who he believes will forge an impressive career elsewhere.

Whether Carrick can translate his early promise into a full-time role remains to be seen, but he's certainly given himself every reason to believe the opportunity could materialise.