Michael Carrick: The one issue that could deny Man United legend the permanent role | OneFootball

INEOS may already have a clear idea of whom they will appoint as the permanent Manchester United head coach.

At the start of the year, the United decision-makers dismissed Ruben Amorim. Rather than appointing his permanent replacement straight away, they opted for the caretaker route.

Michael Carrick as caretaker

Michael Carrick got the role, and what a masterstroke that decision has been.

Carrick has steadied the ship at Old Trafford magnificently; in 12 games, he has guided the Red Devils to eight wins, two draws, and two losses.

For the former midfielder’s great work at M16, Champions League football returning to Old Trafford is no longer a big if; it is expected.

Surely, then, it will be hard for INEOS to overlook Carrick as their next permanent head coach.

So what are Carrick’s chances of landing the United job?

Well, The Daily Mail, assessing the 20-time English champions’ pursuit of the ideal Amorim heir, explains the World Cup factor in their managerial chase, why Carrick is the favourite, and what could yet deny the 44-year-old the role:

They report:

“United have carried out background checks on a number of contenders as part of a thorough process, but, barring a dramatic late-season collapse, it would be a surprise if they do not hand the job to Carrick.

“The club are reluctant to consider any manager who will be busy at the World Cup this summer, effectively ruling out Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, Mauricio Pochettino, and Julian Nagelsmann. United are also unlikely to overlook Carrick in favour of Premier League rivals such as Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, or Eddie Howe.”

That Carrick is the favourite should come as no surprise; so far, he has proved he can get the best out of this United squad and, frankly, has embarrassed Amorim in the process.

With the right signings, he should take this team to the next level.

It is equally understandable that The Old Trafford chiefs would opt to give him the chance to lead their project; he has already established a strong rapport with the players.

Makes sense, not looking elsewhere

A different coach would have to start from scratch implementing his tactical plan, which goes some way to explaining why several exciting Premier League coaches are likely to be passed over.

Beyond that, pursuing a head coach involved in the World Cup would disrupt United’s summer plans considerably. While the new coach should be shaping up the squad for next season and participating in recruitment, a World Cup commitment, followed by the rest that comes after it, would rob him of a proper pre-season, with potential repercussions for Manchester United’s performances next term.

Carrick for the job

Thus, as The Daily Mail confirm, Carrick looks the clear favourite, and these final few games should see him justify that status emphatically.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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