Manchester United Hire Former Liverpool Scout

Manchester United's interim manager Michael Carrick has recruited a former Liverpool scout to his staff, marking a surprising cross-rivalry move amid the club's ongoing managerial transition.[1][2]

Reliable reports indicate that Carrick, recently appointed as United's interim head coach following recent instability, brought the ex-Liverpool recruitment expert on board as part of his backroom team.[1][2] This hire underscores Carrick's emphasis on bolstering scouting and recruitment capabilities during his temporary tenure, which is expected to last through the remainder of the season.[5][6]

The decision comes as United prioritizes stability over a permanent appointment immediately. Carrick, a former United midfielder with deep club roots, edged out other internal candidates like Darren Fletcher and an apparent reference to Gunnar Solskjær for the interim role.[4][5] His previous stint as caretaker manager showed promise, and sources suggest this period will test his suitability for a longer-term position.[5]

Meanwhile, United legend Wayne Rooney has publicly expressed enthusiasm for joining Carrick's staff as an assistant coach. In a recent BBC podcast, Rooney called it a "no-brainer," stressing the importance of appointing individuals who embody the club's culture and history.[4] He criticized past hires lacking United DNA, such as Erik ten Hag, Ralf Rangnick, and Louis van Gaal, arguing for insiders like himself or Roy Keane to restore the team's identity and familial atmosphere.[4]

Carrick's recruitment strategy appears pragmatic, avoiding costly pursuits of external managers like Eddie Howe or Unai Emery, which could incur compensation fees and disrupt playing styles.[5] With top coaches like Xabi Alonso, Thomas Tuchel, and Mauricio Pochettino potentially available post-2026 World Cup, United plans a thorough summer search.[3][5] Critics note past errors, like prematurely making Ole Gunnar Solskjær permanent after his interim success, urging a measured approach over nostalgia.[5][6]

This former Liverpool scout's addition highlights Carrick's focus on talent identification, potentially aiding United's revival efforts in a competitive Premier League landscape.[1][2]

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