Michael Carrick wants to see improvement and progress as the Manchester United manager looks ahead to next season and beyond.
The 44-year-old has agreed a deal to keep him at Old Trafford following his short spell in charge.
Fabrizio Romano reported on Friday that the appointment has now been ‘approved by Sir Jim Ratfliffe’ and a two-year deal with an option for a third year will be signed soon.
Carrick was brought in for the rest of the campaign following the exit of Ruben Amorim in January and has looked to make a remarkable comeback, with United reaching the Champions League qualifying stages with three games to spare.
The midfielder could sign terms ahead of Sunday’s final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest and is excited about what the club can achieve in the coming seasons.
“You have to keep aiming high, really,” said Carrick. “I think that’s the beauty of football and the beauty of competition – to achieve something, to support, to improve things. I think that’s always a challenge.
“For the players, the team, the whole team, the football club, we are always moving in a positive way and in the right direction.
“When you get close to the top, it is clear that there is little room for progress, but progress is what should be aimed for.”
Fabrizio Romano reveals that the Man Utd midfielder will stay and become their highest paid player
The manager is about to sign a long-term deal.
Latest Man Utd transfers: Camavinga, Rios
United will strengthen their midfield to help Carrick this summer, according to various reports, with Romano even saying he could bring in three new faces in the center of the park.
It is reported that the club has held talks with Real Madrid star Eduardo Camavinga, who has been left out of the French squad that will play in the World Cup following an up and down season in the Spanish capital.
And with INEOS expected to spend big on at least one midfielder, a second or third landing option could be a cheap solution, with Benfica’s Richard Rios now available at a discount.
United have been tracking the midfielder for some time, but his £87m release clause has proved unacceptable, and it looks like they have been wise to bide their time.
Indeed, with Benfica looking set to miss out on the Champions League, the Portuguese club are planning to rebuild, and are willing to entertain offers of around £26m for the 25-year-old Colombia international (via Sporting Witness).
United have been named as the English club most interested in his signature, but may face competition from European clubs.
Rios has played 90 games for club and country since the start of 2025, and has provided four goals and four assists in Liga Portugal this season despite operating mainly as a defensive midfielder.
His strength and stamina could go a long way in widening the field between Carrick and a marquee player like Camavinga.
