Wayne Rooney lays out the one condition Carrick must meet to become permanent United boss

Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney has named the one key thing Michael Carrick must do before he is handed the permanent job. Brilliant start Carrick has enjoyed an incredible run since he was named Ruben Amorim’s temporary replacement in December last year. He has taken charge of eight Premier League games, winning six, drawing one and losing one. Heading into this weekend’s round of fixtures, United lie in third place in the Premier League table. The initial idea was for Carrick to see out the season but the work he has done has sparked debate over whether United should keep him. United insist they will conduct a thorough recruitment process and all consider all their options. However, on current trajectory, it feels like the role is Carrick’s to lose. Some ex-players including Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Steve Bruce, Owen Hargreaves and Michael Owen have called for United to appoint Carrick permanently. Another faction, primarily consisting of Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Roy Keane, have argued that United should look past Carrick. Scholes recently went as far as digging out Carrick, although he later performed a U-turn on his controversial remarks. Rooney has been nothing but supportive of Carrick and believes that his former teammate deserves the job if he brings Champions League football back to Old Trafford. Rooney sets condition Rooney said on the Stick to Football podcast, “I think if they get Champions League football, he should get the job.” “He puts himself right up there if they’re looking for new managers.” United’s record goalscorer added, “But he definitely puts himself in pole position, I think.” United’s push for an automatic Champions League place faces a critical test on Sunday when they host Aston Villa. The two sides are level on points, separated only by goal difference, making this a pivotal showdown at the Theatre of Dreams. Kick-off is at 2pm. Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!