Michael Carrick Reveals Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Message After Missing Out on Man United Job

Michael Carrick’s return to the Manchester United dugout has already delivered one memorable moment, and now the interim head coach has revealed the private message he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after missing out on the job himself.

United confirmed earlier this month that Carrick would take charge until the end of the season, following the departure of Ruben Amorim. The decision came after the club held talks with two familiar figures: Carrick and Solskjaer, both former caretakers and long-serving servants of the club. In the end, the board placed its trust in Carrick, who wasted no time in making an impact with a superb 2-0 derby victory over Manchester City in his first game back.

While Solskjaer ultimately lost out to his former teammate, there has been no bitterness between the pair. Instead, Carrick has spoken warmly about the support and advice he has received from the Norwegian, underlining the strong bond they formed during their years together at Old Trafford.

Carrick and Solskjaer’s relationship stretches back almost two decades. The pair played together during Carrick’s first season at United in 2006-07, a campaign that ended with a Premier League title. Years later, Carrick became a key part of Solskjaer’s coaching staff during the Norwegian’s three-year spell as United manager. That shared history has created a level of trust that still exists today.

Speaking about their recent conversation, Carrick made it clear that Solskjaer reached out shortly after his appointment and was delighted by United’s positive start under new leadership.

“Yeah, I’ve spoken to him,” Carrick said. “I’m close to Ole. We’ve been through a lot together, so he’s been fully supportive, as you’d expect.

“He’s some man and I respect him an awful lot. He wished me all the best and he was happy that we got the right result.”

Those words offer a glimpse into Solskjaer’s character and his ongoing connection to the club. Despite being overlooked for the role, the former United striker has remained gracious, choosing to encourage Carrick rather than dwell on disappointment.

Carrick also explained that he values having trusted voices around him, even if he does not lean on them too often.

“I think friendships, you have conversations,” he added. “I’ve got a lot of friends in places that I can kind of pick on if I need to be.

“I’m not one that bothers a lot of people, to be honest. But he’s certainly there if ever I need him.”

That sense of calm and balance reflects Carrick’s approach to management so far. His opening match against Manchester City showed a side that was disciplined, organised and confident, qualities that were hallmarks of his own playing career. United limited City’s chances, controlled key moments in midfield and took their opportunities when they came, earning a result that lifted spirits around Old Trafford.

Although Carrick’s role is officially temporary, his influence may stretch beyond matchday decisions. United are already planning for the summer, and midfield recruitment has emerged as a clear priority. The club confirmed this week that Casemiro will be released when his contract expires at the end of the season, leaving a significant gap in the centre of the pitch.

With injuries and inconsistency affecting that area in recent years, United are keen to add a new defensive midfielder, often described as a No.6, and could also bring in another central option to strengthen the squad. Carrick, given his background, is expected to have a strong voice in those discussions.

United have been linked with several young and highly rated midfielders, including England trio Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Alex Scott. The club also showed interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba last year, a powerful presence who has impressed in the Premier League.

Carrick’s own credentials in midfield are beyond question. During his 12 years at United, he won five Premier League titles, the Champions League and numerous domestic trophies. He was also a regular for England, travelling to the World Cups in 2006 and 2010. That experience gives him a deep understanding of what is required to succeed at the highest level.

When asked if he would be involved in talks with the board about midfield targets, Carrick confirmed that he is ready to play his part.

“I’m certainly in this position to do that,” he said. “Making decisions for the club moving forward, whatever that may be, I’m fully committed to that.

“Naturally, as a midfielder, there’s a big tendency towards that anyway. But taking that away from it and now being where I am in the position I am, certainly would be part of those conversations moving forward.

“Because it’s important that we get the next steps right in terms of moving forward as a team and there’s a squad and putting the right things in place. I’ll be part of that in the right way.”

For now, Carrick’s focus remains on steadying the ship and building momentum on the pitch. The backing of respected figures like Solskjaer, combined with early signs of progress, suggests he is approaching the challenge with confidence and clarity.

Whether his stint lasts only a few months or opens the door to a longer future at Old Trafford, Carrick has already shown that he has the support, experience and mindset needed for one of football’s most demanding jobs.