Arabic version: أوين يدعم كاريك لدور دائم في مانشستر يونايتد

Michael Owen has said he “can’t believe people are questioning” whether Michael Carrick should become the permanent manager of Manchester United. According to BBC News, Carrick, who made 464 appearances for the club, was appointed caretaker head coach after the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January. Under his leadership, United has seen a notable improvement, winning six of eight matches and climbing from sixth to third place in the Premier League.

Owen, who played alongside Carrick at Old Trafford from 2009 to 2012, praised his former teammate’s ability to restore calm within the club. He questioned the rationale behind any doubts regarding Carrick’s potential as the permanent manager, especially given the team’s recent successes. “I can’t believe people are questioning whether he should get the job,” Owen remarked on the latest edition of BBC podcast The Wayne Rooney Show. “Manchester United have waited about 12 years – they’ve gone for proven, legends, everything since Sir Alex [Ferguson]. And the one time they are starting to play well, get results, the fans are on board – you’re telling me at the end of the season if he gets third [place] they will say ‘thanks, but no thanks’? How is that possible?”

Wayne Rooney, another former United star, echoed Owen’s sentiments, highlighting the affection fans have for Carrick and his impressive performance as caretaker. Rooney stated, “Everyone at Manchester United loves Michael Carrick and they are just scared it doesn’t go right. He’s done an unbelievable job,” reinforcing the notion that Carrick deserves serious consideration for the managerial position.

Despite Carrick’s successes, the club is reportedly exploring other candidates to potentially take over as permanent manager in the summer. The ongoing discussions reflect the complexities of the managerial landscape at Manchester United, as they seek to solidify their future direction.