Roy Keane makes Michael Carrick u-turn

Manchester United’s managerial future remains a live topic following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim earlier this month.

Michael Carrick was handed the reins on an interim basis until the end of the season, tasked with steadying the ship while the club asses its long-term options.

Two wins. Two statement performances.

Victories over Manchester City and Arsenal have not only lifted United into the UEFA Champions League spots, but have also reshaped the conversation around Carrick’s credentials as a potential permanent reappointment.

Few voices have been more sceptical than Roy Keane.

The former United captain had previously insisted that Carrick should not be considered for the role on a full-time basis, even if results continued to improve, and has since been accused of having an agenda.

His comments have sparked backlash, particularly after Carrick’s early success in the dugout.

However, Keane has now softened his stance.

Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast, Keane admitted he hopes Carrick is given the job permanently, although some people may view his comments as sarcastic.

“I hope they give it to him,” Keane said. “I hope they give it to him in the summer.”

While that marks a clear shift in tone, the legendary midfielder stopped short of a full endorsement.

He maintained that the Red Devils could still attract a more experienced candidate in the summer, questioning whether Carrick would be the right figure to lead a long-term title challenge.

In Keane’s view, the difference between interim management and building a dynasty remains significant.

Despite those reservations, he acknowledged the impact Michael Carrick has made since taking over.

United’s return to a four-at-the-back formation, greater attacking fluency and improved balance in midfield have all drawn praise, even from former critics.

The confidence and clarity on the pitch have been difficult to ignore.

Keane also urged supporters to remain cautious.

Two matches, he stressed, do not define a managerial era.

But he conceded that Carrick has taken his chance, and that even if he does not land the job permanently, his stock has risen considerably.

For now, Carrick remains focused on results rather than narratives.

But as momentum builds and opinions shift – even from the most outspoken critics – the idea of Carrick as more than a caretaker is no longer being dismissed out of hand.