Carrick’s baptism of fire: Manchester United caretaker set for derby showdown | OneFootball

Michael Carrick begins his second spell as interim manager of Manchester United today, in a fixture that can only be described as a baptism of fire.

​First up for the caretaker coach is the small matter of the Manchester Derby, as City make the short trip across town to Old Trafford. There will be no time for teething for Carrick, with an early objective to stop aManchester City side still in title contention.

​Pep Guardiola’s side have steadied since a recent mini-blip,putting 10 past Exeter in the FA Cup, before earning a semi-final lead against Newcastle in their Carabao Cup tie. Antoine Semenyo, the club’s newest recruit and a former target for Manchester United, has been central to both results.

​Carrick’s tenure will not necessarily hinge on Saturday’s result, though it will certainly alter the mood. There is exasperation at the prospect of another new start, even among those who had become disillusioned with Ruben Amorim’s reluctance to adapt.

Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s exit, United have been through every type of potential successor:Premier League proven, proven winners, fan favourites, and up-and-comers. None have found the formula.

​So now, United revert back. In echoes of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s appointment, the club have opted for a man who knows their values better than most. Carrick spent 15 years at Old Trafford as player and coach, before returning now in an attempt to steady the ship.

​There have been accusations this week that Carrick’s appointment lacked imagination. The club’s shortlist of caretaker candidates was dominated by former players, with few suggestions that a permanent successor would be sought in the short term.

​An interim reign opens up the prospect of another dilemma for the board. Should Carrick impress, the calls for his permanent appointment will be loud. But is a novice coach really the right man for the role? It’s a road the club has been down before.

​Carrick showed qualities during his time with Middlesbrough in the second tier, even if he fell short ofPremier League promotion. Fortunately, an objective to reach Europe is a reasonable target if some consistency can be found.

​“Hopefully we can play a really exciting type of football, be positive and express ourselves and bring excitement,” he said this week.

​“I want to be off my seat. I want to be enjoying watching the boys play. And results obviously need to come with that. I can feel my enthusiasm for it because I’m buzzing to get started and see what we can do.”

​Carrick’s career on the pitch was defined by cool, composure, and intelligent decision-making. He’ll need each of those traits to translate to the dug-out, if he’s to earn the permanent position.

A derby win would be an ideal place to start.