Manchester United appear to be closing in on a swift resolution to their managerial search, with Michael Carrick potentially being named permanent head coach sooner than expected.

After months of uncertainty, the Red Devils have finally identified their target. The turnaround under Carrick has been nothing short of remarkable. When Ruben Amorim was dismissed, United sat in sixth place, and INEOS were simply hoping for Europa League qualification. Now, the legendary former midfielder has guided the club to stunning victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Aston Villa, securing Champions League football with three games to spare. A single point from their remaining two fixtures would guarantee a third-place finish—their best in three years.

This dramatic resurgence has made the decision clear for INEOS, who have reportedly set aside other candidates to keep Carrick at the helm. Talks of a two-year deal with an optional third year have been circulating, and now ESPN's Rob Dawson has dropped a bombshell: an announcement could come before Sunday's clash with Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

"Sources have told ESPN that United have not ruled out the possibility that Carrick's permanent appointment could be announced before Sunday's game," Dawson reports. "The fixture is United's last home game of the season, and Carrick is set to address supporters after the final whistle. Whether or not there is an announcement before Forest's trip to Old Trafford will depend on how quickly negotiations develop over the next 24 hours."

If the paperwork is finalized in time, Carrick's post-match speech to the fans will take on even greater significance, marking the beginning of a new era at the club.