United’s billionaire co-owner has spoken publicly about Carrick for the first time
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United‘s billionaire co-owner, has said interim manager Michael Carrick is doing “an excellent job” but refused to comment on whether he would be considered for the role permanently.
Carrick, a former Reds midfielder, has overseen something of a resurgence at Old Trafford since taking temporary charge following the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January.
United are currently third in the Premier League, having won six of eight matches since Carrick was appointed, accruing more points in that period than any other side in the Premier League, including league leaders Arsenal.
Ratcliffe has so far opted not to speak publicly about Carrick’s tenure but, speaking to Sky Sports, the INEOS founder said the 44-year-old is “doing an excellent job, yes, absolutely”.
‘Not going there’
However, despite glowing praise from several former players, including Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney, Ratcliffe refused to be drawn into any speculation that Carrick would be appointed in a long-term role.
“No, not going there,” he replied when asked about Carrick’s future at the club.
Should results continue in this fashion under Carrick this term, United are on course for qualification to the Champions League qualification for the first time since a third-place finish in the 2022-23 season.
While a return to Europe’s elite club competition is on the mind of the British billionaire, he acknowledged the season was far from over.
He added: “Clearly we are thinking about that [Champions League qualification], but there are still seven or eight games to go, so still a while yet.”
Manchester United are next in action when they host fourth placed Aston Villa, knowing that a win would take them three points clear of Unai Emery’s men.
