Manchester United midfielder Mason Mount’s father hit out at Michael Owen after he criticised the player in the aftermath of last weekend’s goalless draw with Sunderland. Mount struggles Mount has struggled with injuries since joining United from Chelsea in the summer of 2023. He has had to be patient for opportunities since Michael Carrick’s arrival as the replacement for Ruben Amorim. With United only focused on the Premier League, Carrick has demonstrated a clear preference for a midfield trio of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte’s absences against Sunderland paved the way for Mount to start alongside Mainoo, but he found it difficult to justify his selection. The England international struggled to replicate the impact that Casemiro has had on the team as United narrowly escaped with a point. Both defensively and offensively, Mount just couldn’t quite come up with the goods. This led to a rebuke from former United and Liverpool man Michael Owen during coverage of the contest. Owen said, “Mason Mount is working hard, but right now he’s not performing anywhere near the level Manchester United expected when they signed him. He looks a little slow in possession, a bit laggy in transitions, and he’s not really influencing the game enough in midfield.” “You can clearly see United are missing players like Casemiro in the middle of the park because there’s no real control or authority there.” Owen continued, “And even someone like Benjamin Sesko helps the structure with his movement and presence higher up the pitch. At the moment, Sunderland look more energetic and sharper in midfield areas. Manchester United need more intensity and personality from Mount because games like this demand it.” Mount’s father slams Owen Owen’s criticism was not taken well by Mount’s father, who made it clear just how he felt via a social media post. Mount’s father observed that the midfielder’s constraints are attributable to his fitness difficulties. He wrote on Instagram, “Maybe not starting a game for five months has something to do with looking rusty. Owen, you fool.” A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Mount has no desire to leave United this summer. He wants to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place. Mount’s United contract runs until 2028. Featured image George Wood 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!
“You fool!”: United star’s father furiously lashes out at former player over harsh criticism
Mainoo spills beans on secret behind his United rise as he details matchday ritual
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has credited calmness as the secret behind his standout performances, as he outlined his usual pre-match routines. Resurgence Cast away and firmly at the bottom of the pecking order under Ruben Amorim, Mainoo has completed a stunning turnaround since Michael Carrick came in as interim head coach. While Amorim was in the dugout, Mainoo struggled for playing time, with the Portuguese coach demonstrating a clear preference for other midfield options including the uninspiring Manuel Ugarte. For reasons known only to himself, Amorim evidently did not favour Mainoo, and during the final phase of his tenure, he frequently became confrontational when questioned about the young midfielder’s unusual circumstances. Mainoo has started every game under Carrick, forming a brilliant partnership with Casemiro at the heart of United’s midfield. Not only is Mainoo almost certainly guaranteed to be a key player in the England squad for this summer’s World Cup, but he also signed a new contract to commit his future to the club. Before Amorim was dismissed, there were strong rumours that Mainoo was keen on heading out on loan. The Carrington academy graduate asked for a temporary exit in the closing stages of last summer’s window but the club declined his request. Napoli were mentioned to be strongly interested in the 21-year-old. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Arsenal were also prepared to pounce and snap him up. Ahead of United’s final home game against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, Mainoo spoke to club media and broke down his pre-match routine. Mainoo’s remarks Mainoo revealed that he aims to prepare a light breakfast when he wakes up, though he may occasionally go for something heavier depending on the occasion. “I don’t have a set thing of ‘I have to eat this’, but just whatever I’m feeling. If I feel I need a bit more energy, or if I think it’s going to be a tough and long game in terms of running volume, then it’s more carby.” “I’d have more pasta, something like that.” He added, “Pre-match, I always have a beetroot shot. It’s good for me, it makes me feel good. And a couple of carb drinks.” In keeping with Mainoo’s calm and composed style of play, he emphasised that he does not pay much attention to lucky omens or superstitious things. “I’m not superstitious. I try to stray away from it because even if you’re not superstitious it’ll seep in, like, ‘I’ve done this so many times.’ Say I’ve done something on a matchday so many times in a row, I think: ‘Maybe I should just change it.’ Just to kick any sort of whiff of superstition out of the door.” “At the same time, it’s still football, it’s trying to have fun. I’m always speaking to Casemiro and he always says before a game, every time: ‘Let’s have fun, bro.’” United vs. Forest kicks off at 12:30 BST. Featured image by Shaun Botterill/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!
Carrick’s representatives hold talks with United chiefs at Carrington as INEOS close in on mega announcement – report
Manchester United have begun talks about appointing a new permanent head coach ahead of the upcoming season. All signs point towards Michael Carrick staying on at the helm after a hugely successful five-month stint. Appointed as caretaker head coach following Ruben Amorim’s sacking, the former United midfielder was tasked with getting the club back into Europe. It was a Herculean task, given that the Red Devils were languishing in sixth place, with most players struggling to perform in Amorim’s rigid 3-4-3 system. What a turnaround under Michael Carrick But the Englishman transformed things almost instantaneously, with the help of minor tactical tweaks, including playing players in their natural positions. And what a turnaround it has been, with the 20-time English league champions accruing the most points since Carrick’s arrival in the division. United have qualified for the Champions League with three games to spare and they need only a point to assure themselves of a third-place finish, their highest in three years. As previously relayed by The Peoples Person, INEOS seem to be edging towards handing Michael Carrick the keys to the kingdom on a permanent basis. Talks held at Carrington today The Sun have added that the 44-year-old‘s representatives were at Carrington on Thursday to meet with the United hierarchy. While the exact nature of the talks remains under wraps, it points towards Sir Jim Ratcliffe possibly greenlighting the deal. “MICHAEL CARRICK’s representatives have held talks at Carrington as he closes in on becoming Manchester United’s permanent head coach. “While the specifics of the talks remain under wraps, formal discussions over the terms of any contract are yet to begin. INEOS need to wrap this up soon “United’s bosses have prioritised talks with Carrick, though they remain open to other candidates for next season. United have two games left until the end of the season and the hierarchy wants to move fast with their appointment ahead of an important transfer window. “Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada have led the push to endorse Carrick for the role on a permanent basis to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.” Getting this decision out of the way will pave the way for transfer discussions to begin wholeheartedly. United cannot afford to dilly-dally as they look to challenge on all four fronts next term. Feature 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
PSG transfer development leaves door wide open for United to seal deal for all-action midfield boss – report
There has been an update in the frenzied battle to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, and it will come as good news to Manchester United. Fernandes chase With Champions League secured and third place all but guaranteed, United are set to start shifting attention towards the summer transfer window. Midfield is thought to be the priority for United, with Casemiro set to leave at the end of the season once his contract expires, and uncertainty surrounding the future of Manuel Ugarte. United are prepared to make more than one top-class signing in the middle of the park. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils have set aside in excess of £150m to spend on midfielders alone. The past few days have seen a surge in links between Fernandes and a West Ham exit. With the Hammers staring relegation in the face, the midfielder now appears destined to depart. United are said to be the frontrunners to snap up the Portugal international. But they’re not the only party chasing him, with the likes of Aston Villa, Chelsea, Manchester City and Newcastle United also keeping tabs on his situation. A fee of £80m for the player was initially suggested, but the expectation is that this sum will drop closer to the £60m mark, especially if West Ham go down. Fernandes poured fuel on rumours of a United switch by confessing in an interview that he would have relished playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at United. The midfielder has never hidden his admiration for Bruno Fernandes either, with the United captain believed to be eager for them to combine forces at Old Trafford. The other club that appears to be strongly making moves for Fernandes is Paris Saint-Germain, who were crowned Ligue 1 champions again and are in their second consecutive Champions League final. PSG are among a number of clubs interested in signing Mateus Fernandes. The midfielder does not have a release clause in his contract, but is expected to be sold this summer, irrespective of which league West Ham will be in next season. #WHUFC https://t.co/HAEB6J74DI — Roshane Thomas (@RoshaneSport) May 14, 2026 But reliable insider Sully reports that PSG are focused on bolstering their attack, which could greatly help United’s chances. Fernandes update According to Sully, United have also held talks with Fernandes’ representatives regarding a potential transfer. Sully wrote on X, “Mateus Fernandes is attracting serious interest from #MUFC and is high on the midfielder shortlist.” “Some initial contact took place with his representatives too, just to gauge early interest, and he is very open to a potential move. #WHU will want a ‘significantly’ larger fee than what they paid for him, even if they go down.” “Multiple clubs have Fernandes on their radar including PSG and Arsenal.” “However, I’ve heard that PSG are currently prioritising their attack first in the summer. It’ll become more clear in the next weeks what United’s steps are as we near the summer, with concrete steps starting to take place for their targets.” Mateus Fernandes is attracting serious interest from #MUFC and is high on the midfielder shortlist. Some initial contact took place with his representatives too, just to gauge early interest, and he is very open to a potential move. #WHU will want a ‘significantly’ larger fee… pic.twitter.com/53d9ibgoLQ — Sully (@SullyTalkz) May 14, 2026 The chase for Fernandes is definitely getting interesting, and it looks like United are all in to get their man. Featured image Julian Finney 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!
Surprise development: United flop “determined” to avoid summer cull, eyeing “key role” under Carrick – report
Apart from utilising the Champions League money, Manchester United will also be looking to raise cash through player sales as they seek to reinforce multiple positions in the summer. Stars who are out on loan, such as Rasmus Hojlund, Andre Onana, and Marcus Rashford, are all expected to depart. INEOS will also save a significant amount on wages with the impending exits of Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia. The co-owners are planning to be ruthless when it comes to offloading first-team stars, with Manuel Ugarte and Altay Bayindir among those expected to leave. Disastrous United stint for Mason Mount Mason Mount is another who has been earmarked for a sale, but The Sun have now reported that the Englishman is determined to stay put. It has been a disastrous stint at Old Trafford so far for the former Chelsea ace. Signed for an initial transfer fee of £55 million in July 2023, the 27-year-old has hardly been available due to injury. In three seasons, the England international has managed a meagre 31 starts across all competitions, missing 69 matches due to injuries. He seemed to have turned a corner in the first half of the current campaign, starting 10 times under Ruben Amorim. Mason Mount determined to prolong United stay But familiar problems returned, and the Englishman has managed one start under Carrick, in the previous game against Sunderland, in which he struggled big time. Yet, the United No.7 feels he has more to give and is determined to impress Michael Carrick and play a key role under him next season. “MASON MOUNT is determined to stay at Manchester United next season despite limited playing time under Michael Carrick. “The former Chelsea player is under contract at United until 2028 and Mount believes he can still have a key role at United next season. Mason Mount: Last chance saloon “Well-placed sources say Mount has had a challenging stop-start season but is fully dedicated to reviving his United career.” Mason Mount has a contract at the Theatre of Dreams until 2028, with United having the option of extending it by a year. As things stand, that seems unlikely, and this could be the versatile midfielder’s final shot at saving his United career. Feature image George Wood 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Video: 18yo full-back’s Cup final heroics go in vain as United suffer dramatic heartbreak at the death
Manchester United Under-18s fought for the FA Youth Cup on Thursday night against rivals Manchester City at the JOIE Stadium. The young Red Devils were cheered on in the stands by Michael Carrick and first-team players, including Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount. Darren Fletcher’s selection was boosted by the return of Godwill Kukonki, while Amir Ibragimov made his first start in the competition after recently returning from a foot injury. First half Both sides looked to feel each other out in the opening exchanges, with the two teams defending their boxes tightly. The first big chance of the match fell the way of the home side. A wide free kick was delivered into the box and headed down for an open Teddie Lamb to strike from just six yards out, but the outstretched foot of Cameron Byrne-Hughes kept the score at 0-0. Cameron Byrne-Hughes with an unreal save for @ManUtd to keep this one level 🤯 📺 @footballontnt pic.twitter.com/gSuCqiaZP7 — Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 14, 2026 Both sides had penalty shouts as the half wore on, but on both occasions the referee reached into his pocket to book Dante Headley and then JJ Gabriel for simulation. City eventually took the lead in the 40th minute, as Floyd Samba’s expertly placed free kick found the top left corner out of the reach of Byrne-Hughes. United responded immediately, drawing level less than two minutes later. Jim Thwaites’ cross was stood up to the back post for Kukonki to attack and head home. Godwill Kukonki levels it just 59 seconds later 🤯 What a response from @manutd! 📺 @footballontnt pic.twitter.com/HB0WgzfJqZ — Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 14, 2026 Second half Fletcher looked to the bench at the break, introducing Nathaniel Brown for Rafe McCormack. It was a risky choice after a good first half from McCormack. But the risk did not pay off, as City gained control in the second half and were the more dominant side. An early penalty appeal was waved off again, with United lucky to get away with it after Byrne-Hughes slid in and tripped up Samba in the area. In the 77th minute, a cutback in the box took an awkward deflection off Kukonki and looped up and hit the crossbar before United hastily cleared for a corner. The pressure was mounting as United were pinned back, and ultimately, City took the lead in the 87th minute. Reigan Heskey cut onto his right boot and struck high into the goal. The goal lit a fire in United, who suddenly looked alive in the final third. Chido Obi saw his effort cleared off the line, but it was too little too late for United’s youngsters. It was a heartbreaking end to a positive campaign, as United’s Under-18s finished in second place in the league, FA Youth Cup, and Premier League Cup. Match facts United: Byrne-Hughes (Overy 79), Helafu, Mills, Armer, Kukonki (Plunkett 90), McCormack (Brown 46), Thwaites, Ibragimov, Gabriel, Ajayi (Lusale 90), Obi Unused subs: Heath, McEvoy, Bradbury Scorers: Kukonki 42 Feature image Lewis Storey 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 Colm Murphy A football obsessed Canadian who moved to England to enjoy the beautiful game. Colm has been keen follower of Manchester United’s famed academy since seeing a fresh faced Adnan Januzaj for the club’s u18s and has been writing about football with a focus on youth development for over 10 years. You can follow him X: RedYouthUnited.
Skinner delivers hugely positive injury news on key duo ahead of final game of the season vs. Chelsea
Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner has issued very encouraging injury news on key duo Dominique Janssen and Elisabeth Terland ahead of this weekend’s clash against Chelsea. Limp ending When United wrap up their 2025/26 Premier League season at Chelsea on Saturday, there will inevitably be a sense of disappointment over their underwhelming finish. Following last season’s triumph, United enjoyed a very promising start to the current campaign, as they kept the pressure on Chelsea and Manchester City in the Women’s Super League. The Reds were also cruising in the Champions League, performing admirably for a side competing in the prestigious tournament for the first time. But things quickly unravelled, and United dropped off in the WSL, letting Chelsea, City, and even Arsenal open up a gap. United lost 2-0 to Chelsea in the Women’s League Cup in March and never recovered, going on to crash out of the Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich in the quarter-final stage. Heading into the Chelsea game, United are in fourth place and firmly out of the race to secure Champions League football for a second consecutive season. Skinner and his players will be playing for pride and he is likely to be boosted by the returns of Janssen and Terland. Janssen and Terland update Speaking to reporters in his pre-match press conference on Thursday morning, Skinner said about the pair, “We’ve got two training sessions [before the game]. As of today, both will be training which is great.” “So, hopefully, if they come through this and tomorrow (Friday), we’ll have Dom and Elisabeth back in the squad.” One player who will not be available is Leah Galton. She is set to leave at the end of the season upon the expiry of her contract. “[It’s] likely Leah Galton will miss out on this game.” The United boss added, “That’s it, everyone else should hopefully be fit.” United vs. Chelsea kicks off at 13:00 BST. Featured image Maja Hitij 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!
Arteta standing between Carrick and his dream midfield recruit, United need to go all out to win the race – report
Manchester United are ramping up their search for Casemiro’s ideal successor. The Brazilian has announced his departure at the end of the season, with a move to Inter Miami looming large as things stand. Manuel Ugarte, signed as the eventual successor to the five-time Champions League winner, has failed to fill the void, and INEOS are keen to get the recruitment spot right this time. Atalanta’s Ederson is one name doing the rounds, but it is well known that United’s co-owners prefer players with Premier League experience. Mateus Fernandes fits the bill for United Club captain Bruno Fernandes has been pushing the case for West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, and the Red Devils have finally started to act. The former Southampton ace can play all across the middle of the park and excels both defensively and on the ball, which is just what Michael Carrick needs in the engine room from next season. The Hammers would ideally like to hold on to the 21-year-old, but given their impending drop to the Championship, a sale looks likely. It will be far from an easy ride for United, given the amount of competition for his signature and his enormous price tag. Arsenal have other ideas Now the race has been further complicated by the entry of Arsenal, with The Times claiming Mikel Arteta is pushing his team to hijack United’s deal for the versatile Portuguese midfielder. “Arsenal are interested in signing West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes as they look to reshape their midfield this summer. “The Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, likes versatile players and the 21-year-midfielder can play deeper or further forward, which has contributed to him scoring five goals and claiming four assists across 40 appearances this season.” Apart from English clubs, European giants like Paris Saint-Germain are also interested. “Paris Saint-Germain are interested in him as well as the Atletico forward Julián Alvarez, who is another target for Arsenal this summer.” Mateus Fernandes is reportedly keen on a move to Old Trafford, and it will be interesting to see which team ultimately wins the race for his services. Feature image Julian Finney 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
United plotting surprise move for ex-Barca winger tearing apart defences with unstoppable dribbling – report
Manchester United are keen to strengthen their left wing but have no plans to reinstate Marcus Rashford. In an ideal scenario, Barcelona would trigger Rashford’s £26 million buy option and extend his stay at Camp Nou. The Englishman has been directly involved in 28 goals, but with Barcelona being Barcelona, there remains uncertainty over his future. The debt-ridden Catalan club wants United to lower their already agreed-upon demands and, at the same time, are also exploring the market to find cheaper alternatives. One such name on their shortlist is Abde Ezzalzouli. However, they now face competition from the Red Devils. Manchester United keen on Abde Ezzalzouli Speaking to The United Stand, journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that Manchester United have been looking at Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli recently. It is believed United “really like” the left-sided attacker, who has taken his game to another level this campaign, around two years after leaving Barcelona for Betis. The 24-year-old Moroccan has proven to be a nightmare to defend against, owing to his relentless dribbling and electric pace. His decision-making is also astute, underlined by his 14 goals and 13 assists this term. Abde and former United right-winger Antony have formed a threatening partnership in attack in Seville, ensuring a remarkable Champions League qualification for Manuel Pellegrini. United should definitely consider signing Abde, who has all the tools to add spark and width to Michael Carrick’s frontline. The Morocco international is under contract until 2029 and has a release clause of €60m. Barcelona told to sign Marcus Rashford Interestingly, Barcelona reportedly hold a percentage of Abde’s economic rights, meaning any sale would put them in line for a considerable windfall. Perhaps that might help them sign Rashford permanently. Recently, former Barca boss and current Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman urged the Spanish giants not to miss out on the opportunity of signing Rashford for a bargain fee. He said: “If Barcelona let him return to Manchester United after this loan spell, I think they’ll regret it hugely. Because €30 million in today’s market for a player with these qualities, these stats, this experience… that’s a steal. Rashford causes teams real problems.” The Dutch legend also hailed Rashford for his incredible match-winning performance against Real Madrid. Featured image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce 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 Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
Michael Carrick lands major nomination to end United’s post-Sir Alex hoodoo – report
Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick’s spectacular run at Old Trafford has earned him a nomination for a prestigious Premier League award. The English manager was appointed in January to steady the ship after former head coach Ruben Amorim’s tumultuous reign came to an abrupt end. The Red Devils were an enigma under the Portuguese, marking a period that had more lows than highs and saw the team finish 15th in the Premier League table last season. The English giants ultimately opted for a change at the turn of the year and handed Carrick the reins of the first team. The Englishman previously had a short interim spell at the Theatre of Dreams after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s exit in 2024, during which he managed two wins and a draw in three games. The task at hand, however, was much bigger this time. Entering into the eye of the storm United may have recognised the need for a managerial revamp last summer, but they opted instead to invest in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system. After spending over £200 million on the attack and goalkeeping departments, INEOS were hoping the Portuguese could get the club back to where it belonged. While the team’s performances did improve, Amorim struggled to get results, and his management of young Kobbie Mainoo also attracted a lot of scrutiny. When Carrick entered the fray, the Red Devils were sixth in the Premier League table after 21 games, with eight wins and five defeats. To make matters worse, the Premier League giants had just exited the FA Cup in the third round at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion, which was interim manager Darren Fletcher’s final game in charge. United wanted Carrick to steady the ship and push for a top-four finish to secure Champions League qualification for next season. The Englishman took charge at Old Trafford on 13 January and had a massive game to prepare for – the Manchester derby. Carrick’s Midas touch transforms United One of Carrick’s first decisions at the Theatre of Dreams was to abandon Amorim’s flawed 3-4-3 system and revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation. He also reinstated Bruno Fernandes in the No. 10 position and put his faith in Mainoo, both of which ended up paying dividends. The English manager defied all expectations by picking up a memorable 2-0 win over their bitter rivals at Old Trafford in his first game in charge. His next test was just as tough: a visit to the Emirates, where Arsenal had not lost in the league all season. However, Carrick tamed the Gunners, coming away with a hard-fought 3-2 win that added belief to the team and wind to the sails of United fans worldwide. Where Amorim had struggled to win three games in a row in his 14-month tenure, the Englishman won all of his first four matches. United have since picked up 10 wins and three draws from Carrick’s 15 games in charge, collecting 33 points – the most in the league during that period. The Red Devils have secured qualification for the Champions League and are third in the table with two games remaining. The Englishman’s efforts have now been recognised by the Premier League. Michael Carrick Managerial Career Stats TeamFromToGames PlayedGames WonGames DrawnGames LostWin % Manchester United (caretaker)21 November 20212 December 2021321066.7 Middlesbrough24 October 20224 June 202513663244946.3 Manchester United13 January 2026present15103266.7 Total——15475285148.7 Source: Wikipedia. Premier League’s Manager of the Season? The Premier League have announced their list of nominees for the Manager of the Season award and Carrick has been included in the shortlist. The other nominees are Mikel Arteta (Arsenal), Pep Guardiola (Manchester City), Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), Regis Le Bris (Sunderland) and Keith Andrews (Brentford). Despite only managing for half a campaign, the United caretaker manager’s nomination speaks volumes about his impact at the club. The former midfielder also won the Premier League’s Manager of the Month for January. Carrick has now become the first United manager in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era to be nominated for the award. The legendary Scot won the accolade a record 11 times. Final Thoughts A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that Carrick is close to taking charge as the permanent manager at Old Trafford. Having also defeated Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa during his short spell, the Englishman has brought a smile back to United fans’ faces, and certainly deserves the award. Most Premier League points since Michael Carrick took over: 🥇 Man Utd — 33🥈 Man City — 31🥉 Arsenal — 30 A successful audition. 👏 pic.twitter.com/4Pt6Etw9K8 — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 13, 2026 Featured image George Wood 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
