BBC: Man Utd set new imminent deadline for managerial appointment with surprise name in ‘pole position’

Michael Carrick has overtaken Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the running to become Manchester United’s caretaker manager.Ever since Ruben Amorim was relieved of his duties a week ago today, fans had anticipated that Solskjaer would once again be called upon to take the reins at Old Trafford on a short-term basis.How Solskjaer’s reign played out last time around(Photo by PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)Of course, last time he did so in the aftermath of Jose Mourinho’s exit, he was eventually granted the role on a permanent basis until his dismissal in 2021. United opted to grant the Norwegian a three-year deal after he won 14 of his first 19 matches in charge. By the time he was let go, they had won just one in seven games and sat seventh-placed in the Premier League table.Direct talks were held between Solskjaer and the INEOS hierarchy over the weekend, and reports are now suggesting that he is no longer the favourite in their eyes.Instead, Carrick is in ‘pole position’ to lead his former club until the end of the campaign, with BBC Sport claiming that United hope to have their chosen candidate appointed by the time the players return to training on Wednesday. Michael Carrick in pole position to be new #mufc interim manager, tho no final decision taken. More detailed talks with Carrick today about contract and staff -no such talks with Solskjaer are planned, although he remains an option. United want new man in by Wed to prep for #mcfc — Rob Dorsett (@RobDorsettSky) January 12, 2026Carrick becomes leading contender for caretaker job(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)The ex-midfielder oversaw the same job when Solskjaer was axed just over four years ago, and United won twice and drew once with him in the dugout.Throughout his three-year stint at Middlesbrough, Carrick recorded 63 wins, 24 draws and 49 losses.He will face a monumental challenge to kick off his tenure, as United host Manchester City on Saturday before travelling to the Emirates to face league leaders Arsenal on Sunday, January 25.It remains to be seen who INEOS will try to recruit as a permanent successor to Amorim in the summer.