Carrick, 44, took over on an interim basis on 13 January following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim and has overseen a remarkable turnaround. United have won 11 of his 16 matches in charge, drawing three and losing two, a run that secured a third-place Premier League finish and a return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season.
Director of football Jason Wilcox led a thorough process that weighed Carrick against the available external options, including Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Xabi Alonso. United made no concrete approach to any of those candidates. Wilcox recommended Carrick to chief executive Omar Berrada, and the decision was subsequently endorsed by co-owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.
Alonso has since been appointed Chelsea head coach. Iraola could guide Bournemouth into the Champions League before his own departure on Sunday. Glasner takes Crystal Palace into the Europa Conference League final against Strasbourg on Wednesday.
Sources close to Carrington describe Carrick's manner and working habits as the polar opposite to those of Amorim, whose relationship with the club deteriorated sharply in his final weeks. Amorim clashed publicly with Wilcox following a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers and effectively forced his own exit. He also frequently criticised academy players and rarely attended youth fixtures at Leigh Sports Village or Old Trafford.
Carrick has embedded himself differently. He has been a regular presence at Under-18 and Under-21 matches since January, and staff at Carrington have been impressed by his commitment to the academy structure. His son Jacey is currently in United's youth setup.
Manchester United were seventh in the Premier League when Carrick took over. They finish third.