Michael Carrick has disclosed his dialogue with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after being appointed as Manchester United’s interim head coach, prevailing over the Norwegian in the process. The Red Devils made the difficult decision to part ways with Ruben Amorim earlier in the month following an underwhelming 14-month tenure at Old Trafford. In the interim, Darren Fletcher took charge for United’s fixtures against Burnley and Brighton before Carrick was appointed to steer the club until the season’s conclusion.
Despite Solskjaer initially emerging as the frontrunner for the role, Carrick secured the position and, marking an impressive start, clinched victory against arch-rivals Manchester City in his debut match as gaffer. Carrick, reflecting on Solskjaer’s support, expressed, “Yes, I’ve spoken to him. I’m close with Solskjaer. We’ve weathered many storms together, and as expected, he’s been incredibly supportive.”
Carrick went on to laud Solskjaer, describing him as a respectable figure and acknowledging the Norwegian’s well wishes for his new chapter with United. “We’ve shared numerous conversations; friendships are anchored on such. I have confidants across the board, always ready to offer counsel if I ever require,” Carrick stated, highlighting his gratitude for Solskjaer’s unwavering support.
With the January transfer window imminent, Carrick acknowledged the need for midfield reinforcements, following an extensive summer outlay of nearly £200 million on attacking talents. Carrick commented, “In this role, I’m certainly positioned to discuss future transfers with the board. As a former midfielder, I naturally incline towards that area anyway.”
Addressing criticisms of Ruben Amorim’s training methods as monotonous, Carrick’s appointment has reportedly rejuvenated the atmosphere at Carrington. Sources have divulged to The Sun that Carrick’s training sessions are considerably invigorating compared to Amorim’s exhaustive yet laborious routines, allowing players to enjoy more dynamic and concise practices. The positive shift in training ethos was evident in United’s spirited derby triumph against City, credited to Carrick’s refreshed tactical approach.