We are shocked to hear the news that Michael Carrick will step down as Manchester United first-team coach and leave the club following the conclusion of his spell as caretaker manager.
An announcement came from the club immediately after Thursday night’s 3-2 win over Arsenal in the Premier League, with Carrick having done brilliantly to repair the team which were absolutely broken after the Watford defeat.
It’s been short but very sweet.
Michael Carrick told club media (via ManUtd.com): “My time at this great club will always rank as the best years of my career. When I first signed over 15 years ago, I never in my wildest dreams could have imagined winning so many trophies and I will certainly never forget the fantastic memories both as a player and as a member of the coaching team.
“However, after a lot of thought and deliberation, I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave the club. I want to place on record my thanks to all of the players and a special mention goes to the backroom staff, working long hours with such a great group of people has been a real pleasure and I have made some long-lasting friendships.
“I am, and will always be, a Manchester United fan and will come to as many matches as possible. I would like to wish Ralf, the staff, the players and the fans all the best for the future and I look forward to being in the stands and supporting the boys as a fan.”
I thought Carrick would’ve stuck around to work with Ralf Rangnick, but maybe he has something else up his sleeve after impressing as caretaker manager?
John Murtough, Football Director,said: “Michael leaves with the sincerest thanks and best wishes of everyone at Manchester United after 15 years of exceptional service to the club as a player and as a coach. While we are sad to see him go, we respect and understand Michael’s decision.
“He will always be known as one of the finest midfielders in the history of Manchester United, and, more recently, as an excellent coach who has worked tirelessly under two managers to help develop the strong squad which Ralf will now take charge of.
“We are grateful for the steady leadership Michael has shown through this period of managerial transition, and, while he is now stepping away from day-to-day involvement, he will always be welcome back as a legend of the club.”
Carrick managed to get a 2-0 win away at Villarreal in the Champions League, drew 1-1 against league leaders Chelsea, and helped us climb up the Premier League table by beating Arsenal 3-2.
It’s now time for Carrick to go away and reflect on his time as a coach – working previously under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – and we wish him the very best in the future.
I’m saddened to hear he’s leaving. It’s Carrick, you know!
