Michael Carrick insists ongoing speculation surrounding the permanent managerial role at Manchester United has not distracted him as he continues to strengthen his case for the job.
Carrick has emerged as one of the leading contenders to remain in charge beyond this season after guiding United into the Premier League top three and securing qualification for next season’s Champions League.
Carrick unmoved by links to rival candidates
Since the departure of Ruben Amorim earlier this year, several high-profile coaches have been linked with the Old Trafford job.
Names such as Oliver Glasner and Roberto De Zerbi were initially viewed as frontrunners for the role, but Carrick’s impressive run has shifted the conversation.
Despite reports linking other managers with the position, the former United midfielder says his focus has remained unchanged.
“No, genuinely not,” Carrick told reporters when asked if the speculation surrounding other candidates had become difficult or unsettling.
“Whether it’s discussed or not discussed, it hasn’t bothered me, it hasn’t changed literally how I go about it.
“I’ve been confident in the work that we’re doing and working with the players and leading the club, so it literally hasn’t had any effect on me at all.”
Dressing room support continues to grow
Carrick has also received strong backing from members of the United squad, with players reportedly pushing for him to remain in charge permanently.
Veteran midfielder Casemiro and winger Amad Diallo are among those said to support the interim boss.
Reflecting on the support from his players, Carrick stressed that leadership is earned through actions rather than words.
“I think as a coach or manager and a leader of a group, you’re only a leader of a group if people want to follow you really,” he said.
“It’s not a thing that you can talk about so much, it’s actions kind of prove that.”
Champions League return strengthens Carrick’s case
United’s strong finish to the campaign has significantly boosted Carrick’s credentials, especially after early uncertainty over who would permanently replace Amorim.
The club are now focused on securing a third-place finish in the league after booking a return to Europe’s top competition.
Meanwhile, reports linking Luis Enrique with the role appear unlikely to materialise, with the Spaniard expected to remain at Paris Saint-Germain following another deep Champions League run.
Carrick added that seeing the players united on the pitch has been the most satisfying aspect of his time in charge.
“When I feel the support and I feel that the boys are all connected, not so much with me, but showing it together on the pitch is the most important thing,” he said. “That’s the most pleasing thing.”
