Jim Ratcliffe ‘not going there’ when asked about Michael Carrick’s future

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