Manchester United have made a decisive move regarding Michael Carrick's future, with the club eager to open permanent manager talks with the interim boss. The 44-year-old has transformed the team's fortunes since stepping in after Ruben Amorim's sacking, guiding United back to the Champions League with a stellar run of form.

Carrick has taken 33 points from 15 Premier League matches—the best record in the league during his tenure—and has United on track for a third-place finish. His impact has been nothing short of remarkable, reviving careers and restoring belief in the dressing room. Youngster Kobbie Mainoo has flourished under Carrick, signing a new long-term deal, while Harry Maguire, a key figure in the interim boss's plans, also secured a contract extension—clear signals that the club is building around him.

Players have been vocal in their support. Amad Diallo, Matheus Cunha, and Casemiro have all publicly backed Carrick for the permanent role, with Mainoo stating the squad is willing "to die" for him. After a thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool last week, Carrick admitted it felt "natural" to be United manager, adding that he loves the job—his strongest hint yet that he wants to stay.

Discussions are expected to begin next week, with Carrick keen to secure the position long-term. While United have considered other candidates and haven't entirely ruled out an alternative, Carrick is firmly in pole position. This is his second interim stint at Old Trafford, having previously stepped in after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's departure in 2021, followed by a three-season spell at Middlesbrough that ended last summer. Now, he looks poised to write the next chapter of his Manchester United story.