Rooney Calls for Carrick to Be Named Permanent Manchester United Head Coach

Michael Carrick was appointed caretaker head coach of Manchester United in January 2026 following the sacking of Ruben Amorim.

“"I used to pretend to be Michael in the World Cup in 1998, and then I was in the squad and playing up front with him," Rooney said”

BBC

The 44-year-old former midfielder has made 464 appearances for United during his playing career.

BBC

Carrick has won six of his eight matches in charge since taking over.

The team has moved from sixth to third place in the Premier League table under his leadership.

The Red Devils maintained their impressive form and went three points clear of Aston Villa to solidify their top-four position.

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen has strongly endorsed Michael Carrick's candidacy for the permanent managerial position.

Owen played alongside Carrick at Old Trafford from 2009 to 2012.

BBC

Owen expressed disbelief at any doubts about Carrick's suitability for the permanent job.

He believes Carrick has 'brought a calm back to the club' since taking over.

Owen pointed out that United has waited about 12 years for success since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure.

He argued that it would be illogical to remove Carrick when the team is performing well and fans are on board.

Wayne Rooney has publicly called for Michael Carrick to be appointed as Manchester United's permanent head coach.

“Arabic version:أوين يدعم كاريك لدور دائم في مانشستر يونايتد Michael Owen has said he “can’t believe people are questioning” whether Michael Carrick should become the permanent manager of Manchester United”

Oz Arab Media

Rooney joins Michael Owen in supporting the caretaker manager's candidacy.

The former England captain highlighted the widespread affection fans have for Carrick.

Rooney emphasized the impressive quality of Carrick's work as interim manager.

He expressed understanding of fans' concerns while strongly advocating for Carrick to continue.

Rooney suggested that fear of potential failure should not override recognition of Carrick's current success.

Michael Carrick has adopted a calm and focused approach to discussions about his potential appointment as permanent head coach.

He has publicly downplayed the media attention and fan speculation.

BBC

Carrick described the speculation as 'noise' that doesn't affect him.

He said "There is not that much noise, is there? It's only noise if you listen to it, I suppose. It doesn't affect me one bit [opinions]."

Carrick expressed his enjoyment of the current role and determination to continue pushing for more success.

He stated that whatever decision the club makes regarding his future will be accepted professionally.

Despite Michael Carrick's impressive statistics and strong support from former players, Manchester United is reportedly continuing to explore other managerial candidates.

“"I used to pretend to be Michael in the World Cup in 1998, and then I was in the squad and playing up front with him," Rooney said”

BBC

The club's ongoing discussions reflect the complexities of the managerial landscape at Manchester United.

BBC

These discussions consider multiple factors beyond just recent performance.

The club seeks to solidify its future direction through this decision-making process.

There appears to be a desire to potentially make a statement about long-term ambitions.

The situation highlights the difficult balance between short-term success and long-term vision at a major football club.