sports2 min read·Updated May 15, 2026·Fact-check: reviewed

Manchester United Set to Offer Michael Carrick Two-Year Coaching Role

The former United midfielder and current Middlesbrough manager is being targeted for a return to the Old Trafford coaching staff.

BylineEditorial Desk··Updated May 15, 2026
Source context

Primary source: ESPN Top Headlines. Full source links and update notes are below.

Fast summary

Start here

  • Manchester United is preparing a two-year contract offer for Michael Carrick.
  • Carrick currently serves as the manager of Championship club Middlesbrough.
  • The move would bring the former interim manager back to the club where he spent 15 years as a player and coach.
Michael Carrick during his time on the Manchester United coaching staff.

What happened

Manchester United has identified former midfielder and coach Michael Carrick as a primary target to bolster their coaching staff. Sources indicate the club is ready to propose a two-year deal to secure his return to Old Trafford.

What's new in this update

The specific terms of the pursuit have emerged, with the club reportedly settling on a two-year contract offer. This follows Carrick's successful stint as a manager in the Championship, which has raised his profile as a technical leader.

Key details

Carrick is the current head coach of Middlesbrough, a position he has held since October 2022. Because he is currently under contract, Manchester United would likely need to negotiate a release or compensation package if Carrick decides to step down from a managerial role to return to a coaching capacity.

Background and context

Michael Carrick is a veteran of the Manchester United system, having made 464 appearances as a player before joining the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He notably served as interim manager for three games in 2021, remaining undefeated before departing the club following the appointment of Ralf Rangnick.

What to watch next

The central question remains whether Carrick is willing to relinquish his head coaching responsibilities at Middlesbrough to take on a supporting role at Manchester United. Official confirmation from either club regarding a formal approach is expected if talks progress.

Why it matters

Bringing Michael Carrick back would reintegrate a respected former player and tactician into the club's leadership structure during a period of transition.

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Sources and methodology

Manchester UnitedMichael CarrickMiddlesbroughPremier LeagueChampionshipFootball CoachingSPORTS