Carrick steps down after being in charge of the club on a caretaker basis
Michael Carrick has stepped down from his role as first-team coach at Manchester United after he took charge of his final game as caretaker manager, the club has confirmed.
Carrick leaves United after 15 years at the club as a player and a member of the coaching staff and leaves after helping guide United to a 3-2 win against Arsenal.
The 40-year-old was an influential member of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s coaching staff and took on the role of caretaker after the Norwegian was sacked.
Carrick oversaw three games in his time – beating Villarreal in his first game in the Champions League as well as a 1-1 draw away to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Following Thursday night’s win though the former England international decided to step down from his position, with new interim manager Ralf Rangnick taking over duties until the end of the season.
In a statement on the club’s official website, United paid tribute to his services to the club.
Football director John Murtough 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.”
Meanwhile Carrick said: “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.”
Related links:
- Patrice Evra admits he ‘isn’t excited’ by Ralf Rangnick appointment
- Ralf Rangnick granted work permit to begin role as Man Utd boss
- Arsenal score bizarre goal against Man Utd with David de Gea down injured
