Michael Carrick was a composed, intelligent midfielder who spent 12 seasons at Manchester United after joining from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006. He won five Premier League titles, the Champions League in 2008, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the Europa League at Old Trafford, and won 34 caps for England.
After retiring in 2018 he joined United’s coaching staff and was briefly caretaker manager in 2021. He became Middlesbrough’s head coach in 2022, lifting them from the relegation zone to the play-offs and the League Cup semi-finals.
Carrick returned to Manchester United in 2026 and was confirmed as permanent head coach before the 2026/27 season.
Coaching style
Carrick’s teams play possession-based football with an emphasis on structure and control, reflecting his own style as a player. At Middlesbrough he turned a struggling team into play-off contenders within months, with a clear style of play and improved young players. He is known for his calm, thoughtful approach, his tactical intelligence and his ability to communicate with players. His deep knowledge of Manchester United, as a player and coach, was a key factor in his appointment.
International career
As a player, Carrick won 34 caps for England and was part of the squads at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups. His understated style meant he was often underappreciated at international level, despite his success with Manchester United.