Key Points
- Michael Carrick is close to agreeing terms as Manchester United’s interim manager until the end of the season following Ruben Amorim’s sacking.
- Carrick is keen to bring in Jonathan Woodgate, his former assistant at Middlesbrough and ex-Leeds United defender, to his coaching staff.
- Wayne Rooney has expressed strong interest in joining Carrick’s team, calling it a “no-brainer” in a recent podcast.
- Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was considered but appears to have lost out to Carrick in the race for the interim role.
- Negotiations focus on Carrick’s backroom staff, with United hoping to finalise the appointment soon for training ahead of the Manchester derby.
Manchester (The Leeds Times) January 13, 2026 – Manchester United are accelerating talks to appoint Michael Carrick as interim manager, with the former midfielder keen to recruit Jonathan Woodgate, a former Leeds United defender, to his coaching staff.
Sources close to the club indicate broad agreement on key terms, though discussions continue over the composition of Carrick’s backroom team. Carrick, who previously served as interim boss in 2021, held meetings with club executives Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox last week. The appointment aims to stabilise the squad after recent defeats, including an FA Cup exit to Brighton.
Who is Jonathan Woodgate and Why Does Carrick Want Him?
Jonathan Woodgate, a former England international and Leeds United defender, assisted Michael Carrick during his tenure at Middlesbrough. Sky Sports reports that Carrick is eager to bring Woodgate into the Manchester United setup on a short-term contract. ESPN sources confirm Woodgate as one of the names under consideration amid ongoing talks about the coaching staff.
As reported by Rob Dorsett of Sky Sports, Carrick’s preference for Woodgate reflects his trust in familiar collaborators from his successful Middlesbrough spell, where he won 63 of 136 games.
What Has Wayne Rooney Said About Joining the Staff?
Wayne Rooney, a Manchester United legend, has publicly stated his willingness to return as an assistant coach under Carrick. In a BBC podcast episode, Rooney described the opportunity as “a no-brainer,” emphasising he is not begging for a role but would accept if asked. beIN SPORTS and GOAL coverage highlight Rooney’s enthusiasm, noting his availability since leaving Plymouth Argyle.
Could Rooney’s Experience Strengthen Carrick’s Team?
Rooney’s coaching career includes stints at Derby County, D.C. United, Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, despite mixed results. He praised Carrick’s intelligence and Middlesbrough record, adding that the interim role offers a chance to prove worth. Sources indicate Rooney’s club ties make him a natural fit, though no formal approach has been confirmed.
What Led to Carrick Emerging as the Frontrunner?
Ruben Amorim’s sacking on January 6 followed a poor run, leaving United without a manager and out of cup competitions. Sky Sports details Carrick’s advanced negotiations, with hopes of confirmation by Tuesday evening for Wednesday training. ESPN notes Carrick edged out Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who met executives but lacked the hands-on appeal favoured by club bosses and senior players.
Carrick’s prior United interim spell in 2021, where he won two of three games, impressed players. During Solskjaer’s 2018-2021 tenure, Carrick handled significant on-field coaching, building his reputation as a tactical coach.
What Are the Next Steps for United’s Coaching Setup?
Manchester United’s focus shifts to Premier League survival and European qualification under the interim regime. Talks over backroom staff remain pivotal, with Darren Fletcher’s short-term role ending after the Brighton defeat. Fletcher, who urged players not to waste the season, may return to youth duties.
Carrick must assemble a team of three or four aides quickly, balancing his preferences like Woodgate against club approval. Rooney’s potential involvement adds intrigue, given his iconic status. The Manchester derby looms as the first major test.
