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Insider: What happened against Chelsea proves Michael Carrick will land the Man United job

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(Credit: Imago) ‘Michael Carrick proved he can handle adversity, he must be the next Man United manager’ Mon 20 April 2026 13:45, UK Michael Carrick has strengthened his bid to become the next permanent Manchester United manager following their win against Chelsea.Carrick led his side to a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge as they bounced back from last week’s defeat against Leeds despite concerns growing around his squad.Injuries and suspensions meant United were limited for options in defence, but the boss led them to an impressive victory away from home, easing any worries.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Carrick has proved he can handle adversity, something previous United bosses have been unable to do.As Man United continue to consider their next manager, the interim boss has put himself in a strong position to take on the role long-term. 👔 Man United Manager News 👔 Get the inside track on the Old Trafford dugout with real-time updates on shortlist candidates and Ineos boardroom strategy. VISIT THE MANAGER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Where does Michael Carrick rank on Man United’s list?Football Insider revealed on 19 April that Carrick is the “clear favourite” for Man Untied following their impressive win away from home against Chelsea.The 44-year-old has enjoyed an impressive spell since replacing Ruben Amorim in January, and there are now growing calls for him to land the permanent job.Michael CarrickMan United RecordGames12Wins8Draws2Losses2Michael Carrick’s record as Man United manager.A number of Man United players are also believed to be backing the interim manager, having enjoyed playing under him as they’ve surged up the table.“That was an absolutely fantastic result for Man United,” Brown told Football Insider.“Coming off the back of the defeat against Leeds and going into an away game against Chelsea, you’re looking at two defeats in a row.“If that happens, then the morale can start to drop and there’s all sorts of complications that come with it, and under previous managers, that’s what would have happened.“They go into the game against Chelsea missing Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Leny Yoro, Matthijs De Ligt, they had a nightmare situation at centre-half.“Ayden Heaven came in and did brilliantly, but it looked like a situation that was going to put Man United and Carrick in a very difficult position.“But he came through it with a fantastic result, gained another three points, and Carrick proved he can deal with that adversity and difficult situations.“That’s another box ticked for him and again shows why he is in a strong position to get the job.”How do the Man United players feel about Carrick?Alongside the team’s impressive performances on the pitch, Carrick has also been praised for the work he has done with his players behind the scenes.Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider in February that Man United’s star players are backing Carrick and have enjoyed playing under him.Credit: ImagoThe boss’ man-management skills have been widely praised since he took over, and he appears to have got the squad on side after a turbulent start to the season.Key players including the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha have thrived under his management and put United in a strong position.Having led his side to third in the Premier League table, with his players performing at a high level, there is a growing feeling Carrick will land the job. 👔 Man United Manager News 👔 Get the inside track on the Old Trafford dugout with real-time updates on shortlist candidates and Ineos boardroom strategy.



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