Manchester United are considering an unexpected move in January that would see club legend Michael Carrick return to Old Trafford in a new role, according to reports.
Carrick, who made more than 450 appearances for United during a glittering playing career, is currently in charge at Middlesbrough and has been credited with steadying the Championship side since taking over. Now, United are said to be weighing up bringing the 43-year-old back as part of a wider reshuffle behind the scenes.
The report claims United’s interest is not focused on the first-team managerial job, but on a position that would place Carrick closer to decision-making across the football department. The idea would be to use his experience at the club, his coaching background and his understanding of the standards required at Old Trafford to help shape long-term planning.
Carrick previously worked on United’s coaching staff after retiring in 2018, spending time alongside both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and later Ralf Rangnick. He also took charge as caretaker for a brief spell in 2021, overseeing matches against Villarreal, Chelsea and Arsenal before moving into management.
United’s hierarchy is believed to be exploring several options ahead of the winter window, with changes expected as the club looks to sharpen recruitment and improve continuity across the squad. A return for Carrick would be seen as a surprise given his current project at Middlesbrough, but his links to the club remain strong and he is well-regarded by many at Carrington.
Any approach would likely require negotiations with Middlesbrough, who would be reluctant to lose their manager mid-season. Carrick has spoken in the past about enjoying the pressure of management and focusing on building something in the northeast, which could complicate a potential switch.
For United, January is expected to be a difficult market, with budgets tight and the focus on targeted additions rather than major spending. However, the club could still use the window to make moves off the pitch, and Carrick’s name has now emerged as a notable possibility as United consider their next steps.
