Former Manchester United coach Steve McClaren has reportedly laid out a clear blueprint for Michael Carrick to secure the Manchester United manager's job permanently. Carrick has impressed since stepping in as interim boss, but his long-term future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.

Under his temporary stewardship, Carrick has guided United to a strong position, with seven wins from eleven games putting the club firmly in the Champions League race. However, a recent defeat to Leeds United has raised questions, and club chiefs are reportedly still weighing their options.

The Athletic suggests a key factor could be Carrick's personality, which may not align with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's preference for a more dominant, "alpha" managerial character. This has kept the door open for other candidates in what is becoming a complex search.

High-profile names like Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti are tied to international roles, while other potential targets, such as Andoni Iraola or Unai Emery, present their own challenges regarding availability or fit. This leaves Carrick with a crucial final stretch of the season to prove he is the right leader, not just for the players, but for the new hierarchy at Manchester United.