Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Henry Winter explains why Michael Carrick has ‘no ego’

Originally posted on HITC | By Dale O'Donnell | Last updated Feb 26, 2026 11:33 AM ET

Michael Carrick, appointed as Manchester United head coach in January until the end of the season, has had a promising start.

Henry Winter, who co-wrote Carrick’s autobiography, spent time with him learning about his character and journey. He spoke to talkSPORT about what he believes makes Carrick tick.

He said: “What was interesting from talking to Michael and those around him when we were working on his book is that he’s very composed. “He did that at Manchester United. I remember seeing him after games and people would be coming in celebrating or not too happy, but he’d be sitting there with a glass of red wine just analysing it all.”

Henry Winter on Carrick’s rise and growing influence

Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images

It was no surprise that Carrick turned to Winter when it came time to put his story down on paper. The two spent a year working closely together, giving Winter a unique look into the mind of the former midfielder.

Since then, Carrick has taken charge at Middlesbrough, stepped into the dugout at Old Trafford, and may even have a chance to make that job permanent.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Winter gave some insight into what drives Carrick, particularly when it comes to developing young talent.

“You see the man management that Michael’s got, you’ve interviewed Michael, I spent a year helping him write his book, and there is, there’s very little ego there,” said Winter.

“But there’s a huge desire to do well and a complete understanding of how young players tick.”

Carrick helping Kobbie Mainoo find his best form

Mainoo has really benefited from Carrick’s return to Old Trafford. The United head coach has shown a clear interest in helping him reach his potential.

Under Ruben Amorim, Mainoo struggled to get any playing time, but that changed after Carrick came in. Now he’s getting regular minutes and has become a key part of the squad.

At 20 years old, Mainoo is still developing, and Carrick wants to help him grow into his role. It’s not just about what he can do now—Carrick sees value in how Mainoo can fit into United’s future plans.

It wasn’t long ago that there were worries about Mainoo looking for a move away from Old Trafford under Amorim. Now, under Carrick, he seems to have found stability and purpose at the club again.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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