Michael Carrick has continued reshaping Manchester United since taking over as interim manager from sacked Ruben Amorim. After three straight wins, he has scrapped another key rule from Amorim and Erik ten Hag’s era.
No More Training the Day After Matches
Both Amorim and Ten Hag insisted players report for recovery sessions the day after games. Carrick has ended this practice. Players now receive full days off in the 24 hours following a match, with recovery sessions moved to two days after the final whistle.
This change gives the squad more rest and recovery time amid a congested fixture list. Carrick believes it helps maintain high performance levels without unnecessary fatigue.
Broader Changes Under Carrick
Carrick has already made several alterations:
- Overhauled Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation
- Returned academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo to the starting line-up
- Shortened training sessions while increasing drill intensity
- Adjusted match-day arrival times
He has also reversed five bans imposed by Amorim, including no holidays during international breaks, no food in the dressing room, and restrictions on staff giving tactical instructions.
These changes are yielding results. Carrick’s United beat Manchester City 2-0 at home, Arsenal 3-2 away, and Fulham with a last-minute winner. The team now sits in the top four, one point ahead of Chelsea and six behind second-placed Manchester City.
Path to Top Four and Possible Permanent Role
With no European or cup commitments, Carrick has a clear run to push for Champions League qualification. United face Tottenham at Old Trafford this weekend before travelling to West Ham on Tuesday February 10.
Carrick is not currently expected to get the job permanently. However, continued success could change that. Former teammate Ben Foster said on his Fozcast podcast that if Carrick wins 10 of the remaining 15 games, United would have to give him the role full-time.
Foster noted the friendly dynamic under Carrick as interim. Making it permanent might alter that, as seen with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but the results speak for themselves.
Carrick’s fresh approach is breathing new life into Manchester United as they chase a top-four finish.
