Manchester United are preparing to open formal talks with Michael Carrick over becoming the club’s next permanent head coach, after an impressive spell in interim charge that has restored stability and secured Champions League football.

Carrick, a former United midfielder and long-serving assistant, has overseen a striking upturn in form since stepping into the dugout. His side have taken 10 wins and three draws from 15 matches, a run that has not only lifted the mood around Old Trafford but also guaranteed a lucrative return to Europe’s elite competition, with an estimated nine-figure boost to club revenues.

Senior figures at United are understood to have sounded out alternative candidates and insist the process is not a simple coronation. High-profile names such as Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique have all been discussed at various stages, but as those options have receded, Carrick’s case has strengthened on and off the pitch.

Inside the dressing room, support for Carrick is strong. Players speak of a manager who communicates clearly, protects them in difficult moments and has fostered a tighter, more resilient group. Winger Amad Diallo has described a squad “really together” under Carrick, crediting him and his staff for creating an environment where mistakes are shared and confidence is rebuilt quickly.

Young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is among those to have flourished, while senior figures such as Casemiro and Matheus Cunha have also publicly backed Carrick to be given the job on a full-time basis. The sense from within the camp is that continuity would reward the progress already made.

Former United captain Gary Neville has argued that Carrick has put himself “in pole position” through results and the calm authority he has shown, while also warning that the demands of a full season, with Champions League commitments and heightened scrutiny, will be a different test entirely.

Within the boardroom, there is recognition that United have previously been swayed by emotion when appointing managers with strong club ties. This time, the decision-makers are determined to frame any offer as the outcome of a rigorous process rather than nostalgia. Yet the convergence of narrowing external options, improved performances and overwhelming dressing-room backing has pushed Carrick to the front of the queue.

Talks over contract terms are expected to be straightforward once they begin, and there is growing expectation around Old Trafford that Michael Carrick will be confirmed as Manchester United’s next permanent manager.