MICHAEL CARRICK beat off competition from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge of Manchester United until the end of the season.
United spoke to the three former caretakers to minimise a period of adaptation for a squad that is aiming to qualify for the Champions League.
United director of football Jason Wilcox drew up a shortlist for an external caretaker hire after Ruben Amorim’s sacking to provide United with ample time to identify their next permanent coach.
Michael Carrick has received the title of ‘head coach’, with the current regime opting against the use of the word ‘interim’ after Ralf Rangnick ’s interim manager title in 2021-22.
United sources have reiterated that “results and behaviours” forced their hand in sacking Amorim after his outburst following the 1-1 draw with Leeds.
Carrick was the unanimous choice due to his collaborative skills while United figures were impressed with his knowledge of the squad.
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Man Utd draw up four-man midfield shortlist after snubbing Amorim request
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United and Carrick agreed to bring in Steve Holland, despite the former England assistant having no ties to Carrick.
Holland worked with first-team coaches at Chelsea for nine years and assisted Gareth Southgate for eight years with the national team.
United believe his experience will be hugely beneficial.
Jonathan Woodgate, who assisted Carrick at Middlesbrough, has a strong relationship with the new United coach.
Woodgate is the latest former Leeds United player to end up at their loathed rivals.
Carrick said: “Having the responsibility to lead Manchester United is an honour.
“I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing.
“I have worked with a number of the players already and have obviously continued to watch the team closely in recent years.
“I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here.
“There is still a lot to fight for this season, we are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”
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Wilcox added: “Michael is an excellent coach and knows exactly what it takes to win at Manchester United.
“He is ready to lead our talented and determined group of players for the remainder of the season as we continue to build the club towards regular and sustained success.”
During Solskjaer‘s time as manager of United, Carrick did the bulk of the coaching along with Kieran McKenna, now manager of Ipswich Town.
Solskjaer’s managerial style always counted against him amid United’s insistence on hiring an outright coach.
Senior United figures were also miffed by the campaign that was whipped up on Solskjaer’s behalf.
Carrick emerged as United’s preferred candidate after he spoke to the club on Thursday.
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