Old Trafford return on the cards as 40yo United icon speaks out before Carrick announcement

Manchester United are bracing for yet another reset, with a new caretaker head coach expected to be appointed for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

Club legend Michael Carrick has emerged as the leading candidate, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer appears to be drifting down the pecking order.

INEOS are believed to be leaning into nostalgia, hoping familiar faces can rebuild fractured trust with supporters ahead of a permanent managerial appointment in the summer.

Wayne Rooney has now thrown his hat into the ring, offering to step in and help his former club navigate turbulent waters.

Rooney said on a recent BBC Sport podcast that it would be a “no-brainer” to return to Old Trafford and join Carrick’s coaching team.

He said: “Whether Michael goes in or if that’s Fletch [Darren Fletcher] or John O’Shea or myself, it needs people who know the football club.”

Rooney was then asked directly whether he would be willing to join the coaching setup if the call came.

The 40-year-old said: “Of course I would. It’s a no-brainer.

“I’m not begging a job here by the way. Just so everyone knows, if I was asked to go in of course I would. Appointing the manager is the most important thing.”

Darren Fletcher has been holding the fort over the past two matches, taking charge during a chaotic transitional period.

He is now expected to remain involved, potentially forming part of the incoming caretaker’s coaching team.

The Athletic reported that another coach could be added to the staff to support Carrick.

The Red Devils have only 17 games remaining this season after being eliminated from the FA Cup on Sunday.

An official announcement on the temporary head coach could arrive as early as tomorrow, with first-team training scheduled for Wednesday.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .