Manchester United have appointed former midfielder Michael Carrick as caretaker manager until the end of the season.

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development, revealing that the club has reached a verbal agreement with Carrick and is finalising the composition of his backroom staff ahead of an official announcement.

“Michael Carrick signs in as new Manchester United caretaker manager until the end of the season. Verbal agreement since yesterday, now sorted in all details + backroom staff also. #MUFC official announcement to follow next,” Romano wrote on X.

Carrick, 41, returns to the Old Trafford dugout in a managerial role after previously serving as an assistant coach at the club and briefly taking charge during earlier transitional periods. A highly respected figure at United, the former England international spent 12 years at the club between 2006 and 2018, winning six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, and several other domestic and European honours.

His appointment comes amid a challenging period for the club, marked by inconsistent performances in both the Premier League and European competitions. Carrick’s immediate task will be to stabilise the team, lift morale within the squad, and guide United to a strong finish to the campaign.

Carrick’s deep understanding of the club’s culture, youth system, and first-team environment is expected to be a significant asset. He previously worked under several managers, including Sir Alex Ferguson, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag, offering continuity and institutional knowledge during the transition.

He is expected to be supported by Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans and Travis Binnion as part of his coaching staff, while Darren Fletcher will return to his role with the club’s Under-21 side.

As Manchester United prepare for their up coming fixtures, attention will now turn to Carrick to see whether his leadership can arrest the club’s recent inconsistency and restore confidence at one of English football’s most storied institutions.