Wayne Rooney backs Michael Carrick as caretaker to steady Manchester United

Wayne Rooney believes Michael Carrick is the right man to guide Manchester United through a turbulent period after being appointed caretaker head coach until the end of the season.

Carrick, who succeeded Ruben Amorim earlier this week, will lead United into Saturday’s derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford. Rooney, his former team-mate across 366 matches and five Premier League title wins, described the appointment as the “obvious choice” given the lack of elite managers currently available.

The context is clear. United sit seventh in the Premier League, having won just one of their past six games. Carrick’s short-term role stabilises the club, but questions remain over who will take charge in the summer, with Xabi Alonso and England boss Thomas Tuchel among the names linked. Rooney tipped Tuchel as his preferred option, citing his Premier League experience and trophy record.

Carrick’s calm demeanour, Rooney warned, should not be mistaken for passivity. The 44-year-old made 464 appearances for United and previously managed Middlesbrough, as well as a brief caretaker spell at Old Trafford in 2021 where he went unbeaten in three games. Rooney insisted Carrick will bring focus and grit to a squad in need of direction.

The match flow this weekend will be intense. City arrive as champions and favourites, but Rooney believes United can still rise to the occasion. He expects Carrick to instil calmness and resilience, qualities that could make the difference in a fixture that has historically produced shocks.

Key to Carrick’s setup will be his backroom staff. He has recruited former England assistant Steve Holland as his number two, alongside Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans and Travis Binnion. Holland’s tactical organisation impressed Rooney during England’s runs to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the Euro finals in 2020 and 2024.

Carrick’s first test is daunting, but Rooney is confident his old team-mate can steady the ship. For United, Saturday’s derby offers both a challenge and an opportunity to reset under a familiar figure.