Carrick’s Silent Revolution: Keane’s Critique Meets a Calm, Confident Start
20 February 2026
The Carrick Era Begins
Michael Carrick, the interim Manchester United manager, faced sharp criticism from several analysts and former players, with Roy Keane among the loudest voices.
In Keane's pre-match comments ahead of Carrick's first Premier League game against Manchester City, he said: I'm more concerned about the appointment and the staff that came with the coach. Look at Carrick, whatever his duties at Middlesbrough, the aim was surely promotion to the Premier League, but he didn't achieve that, so you could say he failed there. But that doesn't make him a bad coach. It was a very tough job.
Keane added: We sit here every week and talk about Manchester United being the best ever. I don't see that, even with the appointment and staff. It's a great opportunity for Carrick, but I'm concerned... it feels like a circus show right now.
Against the criticism, Carrick produced a strong start, as United beat City in the derby, then Arsenal, with no defeats in the first five games, and only a 1-1 draw with West Ham.
Carrick responded in a BBC Sport interview: I'm not bothered by the chatter. I won't argue with anyone over it. It's about respect, and I'll take it on the chin. The most important thing for me is helping and nurturing the young players. The world is different now from when I started, but we'll look after them.
The 44-year-old coach added: I'm lucky to have this chance. I love what I do and enjoy the role. My focus is building a good team and achieving success. I'm not bothered by the duration of my spell; the priority is giving my best for the club's future. I'll always go all out for Manchester United.
This week Carrick will look to prove himself further as United host Everton, with talk of extending his caretaker contract longer given the team's solid form under his leadership.
Punchline 1: If confidence were a transfer window, Carrick just closed it.
Punchline 2: Keep calm and carry on—this caretaker might have found the cheat code: defend first, dream later.
