Gary Neville reveals what Michael Carrick 'hasn't got' as Manchester United weigh up head coach appointment | OneFootball

Red Devils yet to confirm next manager as interim boss continues to impress

Gary Neville worries Michael Carrick lacks the top-level managerial experience to succeed as Manchester United’s manager.

Carrick’s current short-term contract expires at the end of this season, and United are yet to confirm who will lead the team into the 2026/27 campaign.

The former Red Devils midfielder has made himself a difficult option to ignore, though, particularly after Sunday’s win over Liverpool confirmed United will play Champions League football next season.

“I think there are things that have emerged that will give Man Utd fans comfort and that they are in safe hands. Manchester United need some stability. They've not had that for the last few years, but he will bring that in the sense that everyone trusts him.”

Manchester United have been in flying form since Michael Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim

Getty

Before taking over at Old Trafford, Carrick had just three seasons of managerial experience with Middlesbrough, and Neville worries that the added strain of Champions League football could prove too much for the 44-year-old.

Neville went on: “Fans like him, the players obviously like him. The owners will trust him. Next year, he's got 55-60 games with the Champions League and surely they won't go out in the first rounds of the cup competitions.

“Then it's all a different level of management and scrutiny. It's a lot more challenging. Does he have the experience? Does he have the body of work to rely upon?

“Some people say 'why don't you give him a year contract and give him a further year to stabilise things further?' I don't think I can argue with that.

“But, if a world-class manager became available that has won titles, Manchester United should probably pursue that route because the last five managers have not had that super club experience. Michael would be another who has not quite got that.”

Roy Keane also weighed in on Carrick’s job prospects, adding: “He's got a great chance [of staying on permanently]. If he can finish the season strongly, he's gotten into a habit of winning football matches, which is good.

“The remit was to get into the Champions League and he's done it. He's left an impression on everyone at the club and he's going along nicely.

“Man Utd are probably looking at the other options out there, but while they're doing that, he's winning football matches and it gives him a good chance of getting the job.”