The rise of Michael Carrick at Man United is a double-edged sword for INEOS

Manchester United are engulfed in uncertainty, with serious questions hanging over what the long-term future truly holds.

For a while, it appeared that INEOS had fully bought into the philosophy and principles of former head coach Ruben Amorim.

Yet it was not merely underwhelming results that sealed his fate but an explosive press conference ultimately accelerated his exit from Old Trafford.

Michael Carrick has provided much-needed stability to the team, winning four of his five games.

Thomas Tuchel has committed his future to England, signing a contract extension that will keep him with the national team until 2028.

That development represents a significant blow for United, as the German tactician had been strongly linked with the vacant permanent managerial role.

Carlo Ancelotti, another elite name floated as a potential successor, now appears close to extending his stay with Brazil.

With options running out, INEOS will be even more puzzled about who should become the next Manchester United head coach

Michael Carrick: A double-edged sword

Carrick is currently steering the ship until the end of the campaign and so far, he has exceeded expectations.

In five games, he has shown the ability to lead a club like Man United.

If his positive run continues and the Red Devils secure UEFA Champions League football for next season, a growing section of the United fansbase will urge INEOS to stick with the former midfielder.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the senior hierarchy could choose continuity over upheaval, but such a decision would carry considerable risk.

If Carrick were to endure a difficult start next season, the same voices calling for stability could quickly demand change.

Mid-season managerial hunts are notoriously complicated, especially when seeking a proven winner with pedigree and availability. United opted for it with Amorim and everyone knows how it ended.

Now flip the scenario.

Imagine Carrick finishes the season brilliantly, only for INEOS to appoint a marquee, world-class successor regardless.

Should that new manager struggle to maintain the momentum Carrick built, criticism would inevitably shift toward the board for disrupting a functioning project.

INEOS are walking a tightrope, where every outcome carries consequences.

Even the most meticulous process or data-driven evaluation may not shield them from scrutiny.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .