Michael Carrick’s Man Utd appointment confirmed as first words drop | Football | Sport

Michael Carrick has been confirmed as Manchester United‘s permanent head coach on a two-year contract. The 44-year-old has said United “deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again,” after finally being announced as Ruben Amorim’s successor.

Carrick has led the club on an impressive run of 11 wins and three draws from 16 matches after taking over from Amorim in January. United have lost just two matches under the former Middlesbrough manager and have the best form of any top-flight side since Carrick took over. The former midfielder has guided the Red Devils back into the Champions League as his side claimed third spot in the Premier League 12 months on from a 15th-place finish.

Carrick hinted his stay may be extended when addressing supporters following the final home game of the season, a 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest. And he has now shared his delight on the club’s official website at being handed the reins on a permanent basis until at least 2028.

He said: “From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United. Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride.

“Throughout the past five months, this group of players have shown they can reach the standards of resilience, togetherness and determination that we demand here.

“Now it’s time to move forward together again, with ambition and a clear sense of purpose. Manchester United and our incredible supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again.”

Carrick has impressed United’s hierarchy after an impressive spell in temporary charge. United director of football Jason Wilcox has been one of those to recommend his appointment to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

The 55-year-old said: “Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men’s team. In the time he has been doing the role, we have seen positive results on the pitch, but more than that, an approach which aligns with the club’s values, traditions and history.

“Michael’s achievements in leading the club back to the Champions League should not be understated. He has forged a strong bond with the players and can be proud of the winning culture at Carrington and in the dressing room, which we are continuing to build.”

Carrick’s only previous managerial experience came with Championship side Middlesbrough, where he spent two-and-a-half years.

The former England international also worked as a first-team coach at United under both Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer from 2018 to 2021.