The announcement came on 22/5, less than five months after Carrick returned to lead the first team. The 44-year-old former midfielder guided Man Utd to a Champions League spot for next season, securing 11 victories in 16 matches and finishing 3rd in the league.

In a statement on the club's website, Carrick expressed feeling the magic of Man Utd from his very first day, two decades ago. The English coach called leading the team a great honor, stressing that Man Utd must aim to compete for the biggest titles.

Coach Michael Carrick instructs Bruno Fernandes during Man Utd's 2-0 victory over Man City at Old Trafford in Premier League matchweek 22 on 17/1/2026. *AFP*

"Over the past five months, this group of players has shown they can meet the club's standards of resilience, unity, and determination", Carrick stated. "Now is the time to move forward together with clear ambition and goals. Man Utd, along with its amazing fans, deserves to be back in the race for major trophies."

Carrick took over the reins on 13/1, after Ruben Amorim's dismissal. At that point, Man Utd was 7th in the Premier League and faced the risk of missing out on the Champions League. In just over four months, the former England international significantly improved the team's points tally and overall form.

Man Utd has earned the most Premier League points since Carrick assumed his role. He also won the league's coach of the month award in his inaugural month, following victories against Man City and Arsenal.

Football Director Jason Wilcox believes Carrick deserves a long-term opportunity, attributing it to his on-field results and an approach that aligns with the club's traditional values. "Michael has built strong connections with the players and created a winning culture at Carrington and in the dressing room", Wilcox said. "Bringing the team back to the Champions League is an achievement that should not be overlooked."

According to English media, Man Utd's management considered other candidates such as Andoni Iraola, Julian Nagelsmann, and Luis Enrique. However, after ruling out an approach for Iraola last week, Chief Executive Officer Omar Berrada and Wilcox proposed that co-owner Jim Ratcliffe offer the permanent job to Carrick.

Carrick becomes the 7th permanent coach of Man Utd since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Before him, Old Trafford had seen the reigns of David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Erik ten Hag, and Ruben Amorim.

Carrick's appointment is viewed as a choice favoring stability after years of upheaval. As a former captain who played 464 matches for Man Utd, Carrick deeply understands the club environment and is highly regarded for his ability to manage the dressing room.

During his playing career at Man Utd, Carrick won 5 Premier League titles, 1 Champions League, 1 Europa League, 1 FA Cup, 2 League Cups, and 1 FIFA Club World Cup. He previously served as interim coach in late 2021 after Solskjaer's departure.

The current coaching staff is likely to remain intact. Assistant Steve Holland, along with Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, and Travis Binnion, will receive new contracts. Man Utd also aims to add a set-piece specialist to improve efficiency in dead-ball situations.

Hoang An (according to Man Utd)