'Fans want to see': Carrick promises academy revival at Man United after head coach appointment
Manchester United have appointed Michael Carrick as the new head coach for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
The former Man United midfielder will be thrown straight into the deep end, beginning his short but significant reign against local rivals Manchester City on Saturday.
Former manager Ruben Amorim showed a lack of faith in United’s academy, which is a big part of the club’s culture.
Carrick wasted little time in striking a different tone, delivering a powerful message to young players during his first club media appearance after taking the job.
He said: “It’s what this club’s seen for so long and it’s what we all get excited about. It’s what the fans want to see.
“That freshness, that rawness, that kind of unpredictable talent. For me, to work with the players and try and give them opportunities, I’m definitely all for that because that’s what this place should be.”
The 44-year-old understands better than most that the academy has been a cornerstone of United’s dominance across generations.
By contrast, Amorim was openly critical of the youth system, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe also expressing doubts about its current output.
Amorim even name-checked Harry Amass, Chido Obi and Toby Collyer while justifying his reluctance to trust Kobbie Mainoo.
Those comments struck a nerve with supporters, many of whom see academy graduates as non-negotiable pillars of the club’s identity.
The most damning statistic of all was that Mainoo failed to start a single Premier League match under Amorim this season.
That narrative could now flip dramatically under Carrick, who has already spoken glowingly about the 20-year-old.
There is no doubt that Carrick’s latest comments will be music to the ears of supporters.
Talent only flourishes when opportunity follows belief and Carrick appears ready to provide both.
The upcoming 17-game spell could be make-or-break for many wonderkids who are desperate to showcase their skills on the biggest stage.
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .