Manchester United advised to appoint Ancelotti

According to former midfielder Paul Scholes, Manchester United should consider appointing an experienced coach like Carlo Ancelotti instead of placing long-term trust in Michael Carrick.

Paul Scholes advocates for Carlo Ancelotti as Manchester United's next permanent manager. Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, the former England midfielder suggested Ancelotti’s vast experience and winning pedigree make him an ideal candidate, despite his current role with the Brazil national team. Scholes expressed doubts about Michael Carrick's readiness for a top-tier managerial role, questioning his ability to lead the club to major titles.

Carrick, who took over at Old Trafford on an interim basis until the season's end, has made a promising start. He guided Man Utd to six wins and one draw in his initial seven Premier League matches, equaling the best debut record in the league's history. The team’s 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace last weekend propelled "The Red Devils" to third place, significantly boosting their Champions League qualification hopes. However, Scholes remains unconvinced, stating, "The question is whether Carrick has enough experience. The Championship is completely different from competing for the Premier League title." He added, "Can we imagine Carrick winning the Premier League? I'm not sure." Carrick previously managed Middlesbrough in the Championship from 2022-2025 before his return to Old Trafford.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti directs Brazil's training session at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 14/11/2025. *Photo: Reuters*

Ancelotti, currently the first foreign coach in Brazil national team history, reportedly has an agreement to extend his contract until 2030. Despite this, Scholes hopes Man Utd could persuade Ancelotti to reconsider after the 2026 World Cup. Scholes emphasized the need for a coach with "the aura and presence of a leader" at Old Trafford, a quality he believes Ancelotti possesses. Ancelotti's illustrious career spans over 30 years, beginning with Reggiana in Serie B in 1995. He has since managed numerous prominent clubs, including Parma, Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea, PSG, Real Madrid, Bayern, Napoli, and Everton. His impressive trophy cabinet includes 6 national league titles and 5 Champions League titles.

Scholes also highlighted a broader strategic decision facing the club: whether to prioritize a tactically-oriented coach or one skilled in man-management. He drew a parallel with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who excelled in managing the dressing room but lacked the experience to secure major trophies. Scholes concluded, "Coaches skilled in man-management often need an excellent tactical assistant by their side. The club must decide what they want. The questions once asked of Ole will continue to be asked of Carrick."