Previously, Roy Keane sarcastically remarked that Carrick's wife "is probably the team's psychologist", referring to a 2014 incident where Lisa Carrick publicly refuted Keane on social media following criticism aimed at her husband. Keane also criticized Man Utd's new coaching staff as inexperienced and chosen through connections.

Controversial statements from former football legends were also mentioned during the tenure of his predecessor, Ruben Amorim. However, Carrick considers such comments irrelevant to his current focus.

"That doesn't bother me", the English manager stated during the press conference before the Manchester derby, when asked about Keane's remarks. "I don't feel any added pressure. There are many opinions circulating, some positive, some not".

According to Carrick, external voices, including those from former players, are inevitable at a major club like Man Utd. "None of it relates to what I'm focused on", he stated. "I know what the team needs to improve, and how we want to work with the players. For me, the most important thing is the collective of players and coaching staff, all working towards success".

Manager Michael Carrick speaks during a press conference before Man Utd's match against Man City in the 22nd round of the Premier League. *Photo: Man Utd*

During his playing career, Carrick was with Man Utd from 2006-2018, playing 464 matches and winning 5 Premier League titles and one Champions League. Before that, he played for West Ham and Tottenham.

Carrick is no stranger to interim roles at Old Trafford. After Ole Solskjaer's dismissal in late 2021, Carrick managed Man Utd for three matches as interim coach, securing two wins and one draw. He departed the club when Ralf Rangnick was appointed manager until the end of the 2021-2022 season. Previously, Carrick had been a member of the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Solskjaer, immediately after retiring in 2018.

"These are two very different roles. Sitting in this seat before you is clearly different from daily coaching work", Carrick said, discussing the distinction between an interim role and an assistant. "But I'm truly happy to be here. Man Utd has been a huge part of my life for a long time, and I understand the position I'm taking on".

According to Carrick, feelings of pride are always accompanied by pressure and responsibility. "On one hand, it's great to be back and take on this role. But on the other is the focus, determination, and genuine desire to improve the team and its performance. Here, the task is always to win, to play well, and to do it in a certain way", he stated.

The 44-year-old manager stated he feels no specific pressure regarding performance targets and emphasized the importance of individual player development. "For me, success is primarily about progress", he explained. "I truly enjoy the work of helping players develop. When individuals improve, the entire team becomes stronger. Of course, results remain paramount. We need to improve our performances, learn how to win in different circumstances, and strive to finish the season in the highest position possible".