Sir Alex Ferguson played a major role in appointing Michael Carrick as the new Manchester United manager, succeeding the sacked Ruben Amorim.
The Daily Mail revealed details of Carrick’s selection, which came after he and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were considered for the position. Surprisingly, Ruud van Nistelrooy was also a third option under consideration by the Red Devils’ board.
The task of choosing the new manager fell to sporting director Jonny Willcox and chief executive Omar Berrada, who ultimately decided to consult Sir Alex Ferguson.
Ferguson endorsed Carrick over the other candidates, a decision that proved decisive in Manchester United’s decision to appoint the Englishman, along with other important factors.
There was no outcry from Carrick’s camp when his name emerged as a potential candidate, unlike Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who whispered to the media, which upset the United board and backfired on the Norwegian.
Carrick also impressed throughout the selection process, and during talks with the board, his ability to work as part of a team was evident, unlike Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who failed to convince Brada and Wilcox enough.
Manchester United’s management has not ruled out extending Carrick’s contract beyond the end of the season if he succeeds in leading the team to a top-four finish in the Premier League and, consequently, Champions League qualification for next season.
