Michael Carrick wants permanent Manchester United manager job after 4 wins; Roy Keane questions his experience for the role.

Michael Carrick has won 4 of 5 games as Man Utd's interim manager, including big wins against Manchester City and Arsenal. This is a strong start. But Roy Keane still says Carrick is not ready for the permanent manager job.
By Newsroom | Football, Manchester United |

Michael Carrick has publicly stated his aspiration to become the permanent manager of Manchester United, a role he considers "the ultimate." This ambition comes at a time when his interim tenure has yielded notable victories, including wins against strong competitors like Manchester City and Arsenal. However, his suitability for the long-term position has been a subject of significant debate, primarily fueled by persistent criticism from former United captain Roy Keane. Keane has expressed doubt over Carrick's qualifications, citing his prior managerial experience and perceived lack of "football knowledge" for the demanding role of leading a club of Manchester United's stature.

Background of the Debate

Michael Carrick was appointed as the caretaker manager of Manchester United last month, taking over from Ruben Amorim. His initial period in charge has been marked by a series of positive results. Notably, he has guided the team to wins against Manchester City and Arsenal, and a total of four wins out of five matches managed. This successful run has intensified discussions about his future at the club.

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Michael Carrick tells Roy Keane and Co he doesn't care what they say as he makes his big pitch to become Man United's boss FULL-TIME in 'the ultimate role' - 1

Roy Keane, a prominent figure in Manchester United's history, has been vocal in his opposition to Carrick being appointed as the permanent manager. Keane's reservations stem from Carrick's previous managerial stint at Middlesbrough, which he argues did not achieve its primary objective of promotion. He has also made comments regarding Carrick's wife, which have been brought up in the ongoing discourse.

Conversely, some former players and analysts have defended Carrick, suggesting that Keane and others are overlooking the unpredictability of football and the significant achievements Carrick has already secured in his interim role. Gary Neville, while initially supporting Keane's stance on the need for more experience, has also acknowledged that Carrick's supporters believe Keane and others are being too rigid in their assessment.

Michael Carrick tells Roy Keane and Co he doesn't care what they say as he makes his big pitch to become Man United's boss FULL-TIME in 'the ultimate role' - 2

Carrick's Stance on the Managerial Role

Michael Carrick has directly addressed his desire for the permanent manager position at Manchester United. On "The Overlap" podcast, he stated, "For me, it's the ultimate role." He has also conveyed a sense of defiance regarding external opinions, suggesting he is unconcerned by what figures like Roy Keane say. This indicates a clear conviction in his own capabilities and aspirations for the job.

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"He has two games, Fletch goes and Carrick gives him a job, great isn't it. Michael Carrick tells Roy Keane and Co he doesn't care what they say as he makes his big pitch to become Man United's boss FULL-TIME in 'the ultimate role'."

Carrick's comments suggest an awareness of the ongoing debate but a resolve to focus on his vision for the club.

Michael Carrick tells Roy Keane and Co he doesn't care what they say as he makes his big pitch to become Man United's boss FULL-TIME in 'the ultimate role' - 3

Roy Keane's Persistent Criticism

Roy Keane has been a consistent voice of skepticism regarding Michael Carrick's long-term prospects as Manchester United manager. His arguments often center on Carrick's prior managerial record and perceived lack of experience.

  • Managerial Experience: Keane has pointed to Carrick's failure to achieve promotion with Middlesbrough as evidence that he may not be ready for the demands of managing a club like Manchester United.

  • "Football Knowledge": On "The Overlap" podcast, Keane specifically questioned Carrick's "football knowledge" and experience necessary to lead the club to consistent success and Premier League titles.

  • "Silly" Suggestions: Keane has dismissed suggestions that Carrick should be given the permanent job, even if he were to win every remaining game. He has adamantly stated that even such a perfect record would not convince him of Carrick's suitability.

"Roy Keane has pumped the brakes on suggestions Michael Carrick is the long-term answer in the Manchester United dugout… Despite the stunning start, Keane remains wholly unconvinced Carrick should get the full-time gig."

Keane has also been critical of the coaching staff Carrick has worked with, at times appearing to link his doubts about Carrick to his associates.

Michael Carrick tells Roy Keane and Co he doesn't care what they say as he makes his big pitch to become Man United's boss FULL-TIME in 'the ultimate role' - 4

Counterarguments and Support for Carrick

Despite Keane's strong opposition, Carrick's interim performance has garnered support from some quarters, with his supporters arguing that his critics are not fully appreciating his achievements or the unpredictable nature of football.

  • On-Field Success: Carrick has achieved significant wins against top teams, including Manchester City and Arsenal, within a short period. This success is highlighted as tangible evidence of his ability to manage at a high level.

  • "Unpredictability of Football": Some commentators have suggested that Keane and Gary Neville are applying too much logic to the situation and are failing to account for the inherent unpredictability of the sport. They argue that Carrick's success demonstrates he is capable of achieving positive outcomes.

  • Caretaker vs. Permanent Role: There is a distinction drawn between the pressures of a caretaker role and the long-term responsibilities of a permanent manager. While some, like Gary Neville, have suggested Carrick might benefit from further experience as an assistant, others believe his current success warrants serious consideration.

"Michael Carrick has won four of his five matches in charge of Manchester United, but Gary Neville and Roy Keane have been told they are wrong about what should happen next."

Carrick's Vision and Future Aspirations

Carrick's statements indicate a clear ambition to transition from an interim role to a permanent managerial position. His assertion that he is unbothered by criticism suggests a focus on his own strategic vision for Manchester United.

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  • "Ultimate Role": Carrick explicitly defines the Manchester United manager's job as his ultimate career goal.

  • Commitment to the Club: His willingness to step into the caretaker role and his current performance suggest a deep connection and commitment to Manchester United.

The situation remains fluid, with Carrick continuing to manage the team while the debate over his long-term future persists.

Conclusion and Implications

Michael Carrick has made a clear bid for the permanent Manchester United manager position, driven by a conviction in his abilities and a desire to lead the club. His interim success, particularly against major rivals, provides a strong empirical basis for his claim. However, the entrenched skepticism of influential figures like Roy Keane presents a significant hurdle. Keane's criticisms, rooted in concerns about experience and perceived "football knowledge," highlight a division in opinion regarding what constitutes readiness for such a high-profile role.

The ongoing debate underscores the subjective nature of managerial evaluations. While Carrick's supporters point to tangible results and the inherent unpredictability of football, Keane's perspective emphasizes a more traditional view of leadership experience and proven track records. The eventual decision regarding Carrick's future will likely hinge on a complex assessment of his short-term achievements, potential for long-term growth, and the club's overarching strategic direction.

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