Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expressed his belief that Michael Carrick, currently the manager of Middlesbrough, will one day take the helm at Old Trafford, Soccernet.ng reports.
Solskjaer, who worked closely with Carrick as part of his coaching staff at United, praised the former midfielder’s managerial abilities and predicted a bright future for him.
During their time together at Manchester United, Solskjaer and Carrick established a strong working relationship. The Norwegian manager has continued to keep an eye on Carrick’s progress since his departure.
Carrick’s foray into management at Middlesbrough has been noteworthy, with the team making a remarkable turnaround from a relegation battle to the Championship play-offs.
Solskjaer commended Carrick’s attention to detail and his adeptness at managing people, citing the positive response he has received from players such as Chuba Akpom.
Akpom considers Carrick the manager of his dreams after the Englishman helped the Super Eagles hopeful rediscover his best form.
The Norwegian manager highlighted Carrick’s ability to balance authority and respect, even when dealing with former teammates, as a testament to his potential as a future manager at Manchester United.
What was said?
“Chuba Akpom, his top scorer, said recently that Michael’s the manager he’s always dreamed of having, and I can believe that,” said Solskjaer via The Athletic.
“As a player, you’d want to do well for Michael because he cares about you.
“He wants you to be the best you can be.
“If I was a player, I’d want him as a manager because he wouldn’t be unreasonable.
“He knows what he wants. He demands respect and hard work, but he gives it back as well.
“Michael has had to change a little bit since becoming a manager.
“He was maybe too into the details as a coach, but as a manager you have to take a step back and manage people.
“At United, I’d sometimes see Michael talk to the players.
“Some of these were ex-team-mates of his which isn’t easy, but he had an authority about him.
“I am 100 per cent sure that Michael will be the manager of Manchester United if he wants to be.
“Michael is a man of value and principles, a big family man, but his knowledge is also second to none.
“He’s had Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho as managers, and he’s played with the best players in the world.
“He’s a winner, but he’s still in control of his emotions.
“I cannot see him not being the Manchester United manager.”
While the possibility of Carrick assuming the managerial position at Manchester United remains uncertain, Solskjaer’s endorsement adds weight to the growing speculation surrounding Carrick’s potential return to the club.
As both a respected figure within the footballing community and a former United player, Carrick’s rise in the managerial ranks could see him one day take charge of the Red Devils, following in the footsteps of his esteemed predecessors.
