Michael Carrick has insisted he is not “chasing” a final decision on his long-term future at Manchester United, despite having masterminded the club’s rise to third in the Premier League.
The 44-year-old was appointed on an interim basis until the end of the season in January following the acrimonious departure of Ruben Amorim.
Under his guidance, the Red Devils have secured 26 points from a possible 36—the best return in the division over that period—leaving them as near “shoo-ins” for Champions League qualification.
Ahead of Monday night’s clash against Brentford at Old Trafford, Carrick reiterated his love for the role but stressed that he is currently focused on the immediate tactical “layers” he wants to implement.
“I’ve said it many times, I love being here,” Carrick told reporters at Carrington. “I’m not really chasing deadlines; it will become clear when it’s going to become clear.”
While the executive team, led by director of football Jason Wilcox, is intent on waiting until the end of the campaign to make a permanent choice, Carrick’s stock has never been higher.
Recent reports suggest United have ruled out any candidates involved in the 2026 World Cup, effectively narrowing the field and placing Carrick in pole position to land the job full-time.
The club is also looking toward the future on the pitch, with a verbal agreement reached for a new long-term contract for star midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
On the injury front, Leny Yoro remains a doubt for the visit of the Bees, while January signing Patrick Dorgu is nearing a return to first-team training.