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Football Insider

Roy Keane's Perspective on Michael Carrick as Man Utd's Managerial Candidate

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane offers his insights on Michael Carrick's performance as a caretaker manager and whether he is fit for the permanent role. Keane believes United need a 'bigger and better' coach for their long-term aspirations, despite Carrick's recent success against Arsenal and Manchester City.

Roy Keane's Perspective on Michael Carrick as Man Utd's Managerial Candidate

Michael Carrick has guided Manchester United to eye-catching wins over Arsenal and Manchester City in his first two games as caretaker boss but former Red Devils captain Roy Keane feels he should not be the club's next permanent manager. The ex-midfielder says United need a "bigger and better" coach to take charge of the club if they want to challenge for titles once again.Carrick has returned to Manchester United for a second stint as caretaker manager after Ruben Amorim's dismissal. The former midfielder guided the Red Devils to a 2-0 victory over neighbours Manchester City in his first game in charge and has now followed that up with a 3-2 win over Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates. The victory sees Manchester United move above Liverpool and Chelsea in the table and into fourth place in the Premier League. The two results, coupled with vastly improved performances from the Red Devils, are also likely to lead to calls for Carrick to be handed the job on a permanent basis. Yet Keane was refusing to get carried away by the two victories. Speaking after the Arsenal win, he told Sky Sports: "As we know you win one, two games for Manchester United, fantastic, particularly to beat City. To come to Arsenal where I felt United would get a result today. I was thinking maybe  more of a draw but I always thought United would turn up. They have enough quality players. They've got momentum now in their season and all of a sudden, you're looking at United and thinking - great chance of top four. If they play with that confidence and belief, then you give the manager credit and his staff credit and the players for turning up."Keane was then asked if he would give Carrick the job and replied: "You're being silly now. Two great performances, but anybody can win two games. It's what he does until the end of the season, and even if they do get into fourth I'm not convinced he's the man for the job. Absolutely not. I think they need a bigger and better manager. But he's got the opportunity. What a chance for him and he's taken it, so fair play to him."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Manchester United defender Harry Maguire was full of praise for Carrick after beating Arsenal. He told Sky Sports: "It was absolutely massive. We know that the first game, the derby at Old Trafford, you're always up for them and you know that one-off results can happen, so we had to back it up today. We spoke about it before the game, coming to the league leaders, who have been excellent this year I must say, they ask a lot of questions of you, to come here and have the setback late on to get the winner, it was a magnificent performance. Michael's [Carrick] come in, he's been brilliant with us, he's brought a fresh energy in, the group's really galvanised. Two tough games, everybody's probably thinks we come away from them with not many points but to win both is magnificent."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingKeane also shared his thoughts on Arsenal after seeing the Gunners beaten and their lead at the top of the table cut to four points. He added: "Pressure was on Arsenal today. They saw the other results; they have everything going for them in all competitions. That is pressure; they are feeling the pressure. It is how they deal with it. That's what has cost them over the last few years when they have got themselves in good positions. The sign over the last few weeks. The Liverpool game, the Forest game and today. Losing that momentum. I can't believe they don't look like a confident team. Play the game, they are obviously playing the occasion. They have to get back to basics and embrace this challenge instead of being frightened of it."Carrick faced a tough start to his time back at Manchester United with games against City and Arsenal but has his team full of confidence after two morale-boosting victories. The Red Devils will now aim to continue their improved form next Sunday when they host Fulham at Old Trafford.

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Roy Keane's Evaluation of Michael Carrick's Performance

Michael Carrick has steered Manchester United to notable victories over Arsenal and Manchester City in his initial matches as the caretaker manager following Ruben Amorim's departure. While some fans and pundits are calling for Carrick to be appointed as the permanent manager, Roy Keane has reservations. Keane acknowledges the positive impact of the wins but emphasizes the need for a 'bigger and better' manager to lead the club to title contention once again.

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Keane's Cautionary Words

In a post-match analysis after United's win over Arsenal, Roy Keane commended the team's performance but refrained from endorsing Carrick for the permanent managerial position. Keane highlighted the importance of sustained success and consistency, suggesting that the current victories might not be sufficient to deem Carrick as the ideal candidate for the job. Despite the recent upturn in results under Carrick, Keane remains skeptical about his long-term suitability.

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Harry Maguire's Praise for Carrick

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire lauded Michael Carrick's impact on the team following the victories against City and Arsenal. Maguire noted Carrick's positive influence on the squad, highlighting the fresh energy and unity Carrick has instilled within the group. The defender emphasized the importance of continuity and maintaining high standards as the team strives for further success.

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Arsenal's Struggles under Pressure

Roy Keane also analyzed Arsenal's performance and their vulnerability under pressure, especially after losing to Manchester United and seeing their lead at the top of the table diminish. Keane noted Arsenal's history of faltering in crucial moments and emphasized the need for the team to handle pressure better if they are to sustain their success. He encouraged the Gunners to embrace challenges and recapture confidence in their gameplay.

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Carrick's Continuation at the Helm

Michael Carrick faces the challenge of maintaining Manchester United's newfound confidence and form as he prepares for upcoming fixtures, starting with a match against Fulham. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his long-term managerial prospects, Carrick will look to build on the recent successes and solidify his case for a more permanent role in the club's leadership setup.

Published on Jan 25, 2026