‘Set to open talks’: Romano provides blockbuster Thursday morning Man Utd update, ‘next step’ decided | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano has verified reports that Manchester United are ‘set to open talks’ with Michael Carrick regarding the managerial vacancy.

It comes after Laurie Whitwell revealed yesterday that the interim boss had emerged as Jason Wilcox’s and Omar Berrara’s first-choice candidate to lead the side into 2026/2027 and, hopefully, beyond.

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Michael Carrick: The state of play

Carrick is said to be ‘open and excited’ by the prospect of managing his former club on a permanent basis, having dedicated 12 years of his playing career to the Red Devils.

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The ‘next step’ will be getting Sir Jim Ratcliffe on board to ratify the decision, after which it will be a case of crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s on his contract.

INEOS did their due diligence by considering alternative options, namely Andoni Iraola and the experienced Unai Emery.

The former will be leaving Bournemouth at the end of the season when his terms expire, although it looks as though he’s Selhurst Park-bound, with Oliver Glasner also preparing to move on from Crystal Palace.

Why Carrick is now the favourite to take charge of United long-term

United chiefs have been impressed by Carrick swiftly fulfilling the task assigned to him: qualifying for the Champions League.

His record in the dugout throughout this spell now stands at 10 wins, three draws and two losses, and he has made United one of the most in-form teams in the Premier League since taking charge in mid-January.

The Englishman, who previously gained experience managing Middlesbrough for three years, has secured triumphant victories over arch-rivals Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, making it no surprise he has the backing of the majority of the Old Trafford faithful.

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