Michael Carrick named Manchester United interim head coach after Amorim exit

Manchester United appointed Michael Carrick as interim head coach on 13 January 2026, a little over a week after the club dismissed Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese had spent about 14 months in charge, and his position had weakened after post-match comments that appeared to criticise the club's hierarchy following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

Darren Fletcher, a former player and club figure, had led the team as caretaker for two games without a win, including a 2-2 draw with Burnley. United then turned to Carrick, who played for the club from 2006 to 2018, won the Premier League and the Champions League, and had been caretaker manager briefly in 2021. He had since managed Middlesbrough, a second-tier English club.

His deal ran until the end of the 2025/26 season, giving United time to search for a long-term successor. Steve Holland, Jonny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate were among his staff. His first match in charge was the Manchester derby against City, and the early results were strong, which later fuelled talk of a permanent role.