Whatever happens at Manchester United this summer, Michael Carrick can still be satisfied that he has done everything to convince the board of directors to give him an official chance.
The trio of leaders including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox are still considering who will lead the team next season. As Carrick once shared, it was not his decision. But with 9 wins in 13 coaching matches, bringing the team closer to a UEFA Champions League spot, he has clearly demonstrated his ability.
The 2-1 victory over Brentford at Old Trafford clearly reflects the face of Man United: active attack but loose defense. However, the overall achievements since Carrick took over in January cannot be denied.
Man United has won 29/39 maximum points, rising from 7th to 3rd place in the Premier League. Just needing 2 more points in the last 4 rounds, they will officially win a ticket to the Champions League next season.
We created a great opportunity to achieve our goal. But there's still a lot to do. Victory needs to become a habit," Carrick said.
However, the problem is not only in the coaching bench. M.U's leadership also has to make important decisions about the squad, especially the midfield.
In the match against Brentford, Bruno Fernandes continued to prove his importance as a leader. Casemiro showed why he is difficult to replace, while Kobbie Mainoo reminded that recruiting new players should not hinder the development of this young talent.
Mainoo himself had a classy handling right in the 3rd minute, surpassing three opposing defenders to create an opportunity for Amad Diallo, although his subsequent shot was blocked right on the goal line.
He has everything - from the ability to hold the ball, build the playing style to contest and defend" - Carrick commented on his student.
Man United did not have to wait long to score. In the 11th minute, Casemiro headed in his 9th goal of the season. With his current form, replacing the Brazilian midfielder when he leaves will be an extremely costly problem.
However, finding a replacement for Fernandes is even more difficult. The Portuguese midfielder continued to sublimate with his 19th assist this season, helping Benjamin Sesko increase the score to 2-0 before halftime.
Despite receiving attention from many clubs (nearly joining Al-Hilal), Fernandes is still an irreplaceable factor in both expertise and leadership role at Old Trafford.
After the break, Carrick showed tactical flexibility when switching to a three-defender formation, bringing Noussair Mazraoui onto the field to strengthen the defense system. This is a difference compared to his predecessor Ruben Amorim, who is often criticized for being rigid.
The Red Devils" controlled the game better, although they still let Mathias Jensen narrow the score in the 87th minute, making the match tense until the end. However, the home team still maintained the victory, thereby almost ensuring a Champions League spot. If they defeat Liverpool in the next round, the goal will be completed in theory.
When the season ends, Carrick can be confident that he has completed the assigned task. But whether that is enough to convince the board of directors to hand over the official seat is still a question mark. Regardless of the answer, Carrick has played his role, and that is undeniable.
