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Just in: Michael Carrick accepts Man Utd role

Originally posted on Stretty News | By Michel Sakr | Last updated Jan 8, 2026 9:23 AM ET

Former Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is reportedly open to rejoining the club as an assistant manager.

The Red Devils have been in a state of turmoil over the past few weeks. The tension between Ruben Amorim and the club directors became palpable over the weekend, so the Portuguese manager was sacked on Monday morning after signing his own warrant with a fiery press conference following Sunday’s draw at Elland Road.

Amorim was immediately replaced by Man Utd U18 manager Darren Fletcher, who oversaw Wednesday’s 2-2 draw against Burnley, and is expected to remain in charge at least until Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Brighton.

However, the Scotsman will likely resume his duties with the U18 afterwards, making way for a more experienced head coach.

Michael Carrick ready to return to Man Utd as Solskjaer’s assistant

Man Utd are expected to hire an interim coach until the end of the season. Carrick was considered one of the main contenders at first.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emerged as the leading candidate for the role. The Norwegian is said to be so eager to return to Carrington that he’s not interested in negotiating contract details.

But according to The Daily Mail journalist Chris Wheeler, Solkjaer’s return wouldn’t close the door on Carrick’s. On the contrary, the Englishman will be offered a seat alongside the Norwegian.

Michael Carrick is prepared to be Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s No.2 if he is unsuccessful in getting the interim manager role [@ChrisWheelerDM]

— utdreport (@utdreport) January 8, 2026

The source reveals that Carrick is ready to serve as Solskjaer’s assistant once more if he isn’t offered the head coach’s role.

Solskjaer & Carrick: A deja vu arrangment

The former England international already acted as the 52-year-old’s right-hand man when the latter replaced Jose Mourinho in December 2018.

The duo worked together for three years, until Solskjaer was sacked in November 2021. Carrick acted as a caretaker for three matches, before making way for Ralf Rangnick.

The 44-year-old then had a managerial spell at Middlesbrough between October 2022 and June 2025, and he’s been unattached ever since.

This article first appeared on Stretty News and was syndicated with permission.

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