Michael Carrick is set to take over as Manchester United interim manager as he prepares to assemble a coaching team he knows and trusts, with Jonathan Woodgate set to join him at Old Trafford, according to Ben Jacobs.
Woodgate previously worked alongside Carrick at Middlesbrough, where the pair gained praise for implementing a progressive style of play and leading the club to Championship play-off contention.
Carrick’s appointment as interim manager is expected to be approved within the next 24 hours as United look to restore structure and stability after a chaotic and underwhelming season.
The move marks a return to the club for Carrick, who spent more than a decade at United as a player and then on the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Michael Carrick selects coaching team
In addition to Woodgate, Carrick is also exploring the possibility of adding Darren Fletcher and Jonny Evans to his support staff.
Fletcher is already integrated into United’s technical set-up and brings deep tactical insight and organizational knowledge, while Evans is seen as an experienced and respected figure who can improve the defensive organization and provide a unique perspective of player and coach.
Together, this group will form a coaching unit built around continuity, familiarity with the club and a modern understanding of Man United’s football philosophy.
Club executives believe that Carrick’s calm temperament, tactical clarity and strong relationships within the dressing room make him the ideal person to stabilize the team until a permanent manager is appointed at the end of the season.
Carrick is expected to bring stability to Manchester United
United’s leaders hope this arrangement will bring much-needed stability to a dressing room that has struggled with confidence, identity and consistency.
With the club languishing outside of the top four following an early exit from the domestic cup competition, the interim team’s immediate priorities will be to unite the squad, solidify their defense and regain belief in the final stages of a difficult season.
With approval now imminent, supporters will soon see the start of a new, if temporary, chapter led by one of the club’s most respected modern figures.
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