Jim Ratcliffe has praised Michael Carrick’s role in reviving Manchester United’s fortunes but refused to be drawn on whether the 44-year-old would be given the job full time.
Carrick has led United to six wins out of eight since replacing Ruben Amorim in January and put them in a strong position to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
That form has lifted him among the contenders to replace Amorim on a permanent basis but United co-owner Ratcliffe refused to drop a hint.
Speaking to Sky Sports News at the Chinese Grand Prix, Ratcliffe said Carrick was doing an “excellent job”, but when pushed on the former midfielder’s future, responded: “I’m not going there.”
United head into Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa in third place in the Premier League table and with a chance to open a three-point gap on their opponents, who sit below them on goal difference.
Despite Carrick suffering his first loss since taking charge at Newcastle last week, it marks a significant improvement on sixth place in January when Amorim was dismissed.
Asked about the prospects of securing a Champions League slot, Ratcliffe agreed “all the signs are quite good”, and added: “Clearly we’re thinking that, but there’s still seven or eight games to go.”
Meanwhile Carrick said United were embracing the pressures of pushing for a Champions League return as they looked to get back to winning ways on Sunday.
Building sharpness at Carrington ⚽️⚡️ pic.twitter.com/EUUtTBFzxy
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 14, 2026
Villa’s surprise downturn has been capitalised on by United, who have rocketed up the table and are ready to make a further statement of intent when Unai Emery’s men visit Old Trafford.
“I think we’re always in a test,” Carrick said as United
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