From crisis to UCL return: Will Carrick get the United job full-time?

Manchester United’s turnaround under Michael Carrick is no longer a debate driven by sentiment; the numbers and performances make a compelling case.

Since taking charge in January following the departure of Ruben Amorim, Carrick has guided United to third place with 64 points from 35 matches, securing qualification for the Champions League with games to spare. That outcome looked unlikely earlier in the season when the club was struggling for consistency and direction.

“It’s been a good run, we’ve obviously beat some very, very good teams, and it’s been challenging,” Carrick said. “I love doing what I’m doing… it feels pretty natural, if I’m totally honest, because it’s a difficult role.”

The improvement has not been limited to results. United have shown greater tactical flexibility, finding ways to win in different types of matches — whether controlling possession against top sides or grinding out results under pressure. Wins over Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool underline that progress.

Sunday’s 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford was a defining moment. Goals from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko put United in control before errors allowed Liverpool back into the game. However, a late strike from Kobbie Mainoo secured all three points and confirmed Champions League qualification.

“The pleasing thing is seeing the camaraderie… it was tested at 2-2, and seeing where they’re really sticking in and fighting for each other, that’s what we want,” Carrick said. “We want a team to be proud of.”

Mainoo, who has re-established himself under Carrick after falling out of favour earlier in the season, praised the interim manager’s influence.

“All the confidence he gives all the players, you want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch,” he said.

Carrick has also delivered strong home form. He has won eight of his opening nine Premier League home matches, while United have won seven of their last eight league games at Old Trafford, reflecting a renewed consistency.

“I think when we came in, Champions League was a little bit in the distance,” Carrick added. “So to be where we are with games to spare is a good achievement.”

Despite the progress, questions remain over the long-term decision. A return to the Champions League brings increased demands, including a heavier fixture schedule and the need for greater squad depth. United’s leadership must now decide whether to continue with Carrick or appoint a more experienced manager for the next phase.

Carrick has maintained a measured stance when asked about his future.

“We’ll have to wait and see, that’s all we can do,” he said. “But this can’t be everything — we want more than that, we want to keep improving.”

For now, his impact -- both in results and in restoring belief within the squad -- has significantly strengthened his case for the permanent role.