Manchester United Confirm Michael Carrick Contract Until 2028

Manchester United have officially confirmed that Michael Carrick will remain head coach of the men’s first team after signing a new contract running until 2028.

The announcement follows a remarkable turnaround at Old Trafford, with Carrick guiding United back into the UEFA Champions League after taking over midway through the season.

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Carrick’s dream return to Old Trafford

Carrick returned to Manchester United as head coach in January and made an immediate impact, winning his opening matches against rivals Manchester City and Arsenal.

His early success earned him the Premier League Manager of the Month award and quickly reignited belief among supporters.

Under his leadership, United secured:

• 11 wins in 16 matches
• only two defeats
• 36 points from a possible 48
• a guaranteed third-place Premier League finish
• qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League

The club also recorded the highest Premier League points tally of any side during Carrick’s time in charge.

Carrick says Manchester United “deserve to challenge again”

Speaking after signing his new deal, Carrick reflected on his long connection with the club.

“From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United,” he said.

“Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride.”

Carrick praised the resilience and determination shown by the squad over recent months and insisted the focus is now firmly on competing for major honours again.

“Manchester United and our incredible supporters deserve to be challenging for the biggest honours again,” he added.

Manchester United praise Carrick’s leadership

Jason Wilcox said Carrick had fully earned the opportunity to continue leading the club long term.

Wilcox highlighted not only the improvement in results, but also Carrick’s ability to reconnect the squad with the club’s traditions and values.

“Michael’s achievements in leading the club back to the Champions League should not be understated,” Wilcox said.

He also praised the strong bond Carrick has developed with the players and the winning culture now being rebuilt at Carrington.

A Manchester United legend on and off the pitch

Carrick’s appointment carries added significance because of his legendary playing career at the club.

Between 2006 and 2018, he made 464 appearances for Manchester United and won:

• 5 Premier League titles
• 1 UEFA Champions League
• 1 UEFA Europa League
• 1 FA Cup
• 2 League Cups
• FIFA Club World Cup

Widely regarded as one of England’s finest deep-lying midfielders, Carrick also earned 34 caps for the England national team.

Before joining United, he developed through the West Ham United academy before spells with Tottenham Hotspur.

Carrick’s managerial journey

Carrick first stepped into management during a short caretaker spell at Manchester United in 2021 following Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s departure.

He later managed Middlesbrough between 2022 and 2025 before returning permanently to Old Trafford in 2026.

His backroom team includes experienced assistants:

• Steve Holland
• Jonathan Woodgate

Both are expected to remain part of Carrick’s coaching setup moving forward.

What this means for Manchester United

After several turbulent seasons, Carrick’s appointment signals a clear attempt by Manchester United to rebuild around stability, identity and long-term planning.

Supporters will now hope the former midfielder can translate his impressive early form into sustained success both domestically and in Europe.

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