Michael Carrick has been told that two elite managers would likely stand in the way of him landing the Manchester United job on a permanent basis, even if he continues to impress as interim boss.
The former Red Devils midfielder has taken charge at Old Trafford following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, and he began his spell with a 2-0 win away to Villarreal in the Champions League before guiding United to a 1-1 draw at Chelsea in the Premier League.
Former United striker Louis Saha believes the club should back Carrick while results are going his way, but he also feels there are two standout names who would be hard for the club to ignore if they become available.
“We know Manchester United are looking at the big-name managers,” Saha told Gentleman’s Journal. “If Zinedine Zidane or Mauricio Pochettino become available, they are the types of managers who will stop Michael Carrick getting the job permanently.”
Saha urged United to keep things simple in the short term and allow Carrick to build on the momentum his early games have created.
“I would say: ‘Ride the wave’,” he added. “If Michael Carrick wins games and the players respond, then why not keep it going? Sometimes you don’t need to overthink it. The club have to make the right decision, but in the meantime they should give him the best chance.”
Carrick’s immediate task is to steady United while the club weigh up their long-term plan, with Zidane and Pochettino continuing to be linked with the role as the search for a permanent manager goes on.
