Former Michael Owen has delivered a blunt and uncompromising message to the leadership at Manchester United, warning that the club risks making a “ridiculous” mistake if they fail to appoint Michael Carrick as their permanent manager this summer. Drawing on his own experience at Old Trafford, Owen argued that the decision facing the club is not as complicated as it might seem—and that ignoring Carrick’s case could have lasting consequences.

Carrick stepped into the role on an interim basis after the departure of Ruben Amorim in January, inheriting a squad low on confidence and struggling for consistency. At the time, expectations were modest. Many saw his appointment as a temporary measure while the club explored high-profile managerial options elsewhere. However, what followed has significantly shifted that narrative.

Under Carrick’s guidance, United have undergone a noticeable transformation. In 12 league matches, he has overseen eight wins, two draws, and just two defeats—form that has propelled the team into third place in the Premier League standings. A particularly eye-catching result came with a victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, a performance that many observers viewed as a statement of intent.

Statistically, Carrick’s impact has been impressive. His average of more than two points per game would translate into an 80-plus point season over a full campaign—figures typically associated with title contenders or, at the very least, secure top-four finishes. But beyond the numbers, it is the manner of United’s performances that has drawn praise. The team appears more organized, confident, and cohesive, with players showing renewed belief in their roles.

Owen believes these improvements should leave little room for doubt. In his view, Carrick has already demonstrated the qualities required to lead the club long-term. He pointed to the stability Carrick has brought, as well as his deep understanding of United’s culture, as key advantages over external candidates.

Despite this, the club has been linked with several high-profile names, including Luis Enrique and Zinedine Zidane. Both are decorated managers with experience at the highest level, and their availability has naturally attracted attention. However, Owen cautioned that chasing big names for the sake of reputation could prove to be a costly misstep.

He argued that United’s struggles over the past decade have often stemmed from a lack of continuity and a tendency to make reactive decisions. Since the departure of long-serving figures, the club has cycled through multiple managers, each bringing different philosophies and systems. This constant change, Owen suggested, has prevented the team from establishing a clear identity.

Carrick, by contrast, represents continuity. Having spent years at the club as both a player and a coach, he understands its expectations, its pressures, and its traditions. According to Owen, that familiarity is invaluable—especially at a time when stability is needed most.

Behind the scenes, there are also indications that Carrick has earned the respect of the dressing room. Players have reportedly responded positively to his communication style, which is described as calm, clear, and supportive. Training sessions have taken on a more focused yet relaxed atmosphere, with an emphasis on rebuilding confidence rather than imposing drastic changes.

One source close to the squad suggested that Carrick has struck a balance between discipline and freedom, allowing players to express themselves while maintaining structure. This approach has helped unlock better performances from key individuals, some of whom had struggled earlier in the season.

Owen also highlighted the potential risks of overlooking Carrick. If the club were to appoint an external manager and results failed to improve—or worse, declined—the decision would come under intense scrutiny. In such a scenario, he warned, those responsible could face significant criticism for ignoring a proven internal option.

He went as far as to suggest that it would be difficult for the club’s leadership to justify such a decision to supporters, particularly if Carrick continues to deliver positive results in the meantime. For fans who have endured years of inconsistency, the idea of passing over a successful interim manager in favor of an untested fit could be hard to accept.

Adding another layer to the discussion is Carrick’s own demeanor. Unlike some high-profile managers, he has avoided making bold public statements about his future. Instead, he has remained focused on the immediate task of guiding the team through the remainder of the season. This measured approach has further endeared him to those who value humility and professionalism.

Off the pitch, Carrick has also been working closely with club staff to refine long-term strategies, including youth development and tactical planning. While these efforts have not been widely publicized, they suggest a broader vision that extends beyond short-term results.

For Owen, all of these factors point in one direction. He believes the club has a rare opportunity to make a straightforward decision—one based on evidence rather than speculation. In his words, choosing anyone other than Carrick, given the current circumstances, would defy logic.

At the same time, he acknowledged that football decisions are rarely simple. External pressures, commercial considerations, and the allure of big names can all influence outcomes. However, he insisted that the priority should remain on what is best for the team’s long-term success.

As the summer approaches, the debate is likely to intensify. Supporters, pundits, and former players will all have their opinions, but ultimately, the decision rests with the club’s hierarchy. Whether they choose continuity with Carrick or opt for a new direction will shape the next chapter in Manchester United’s story.

For now, Carrick continues to build his case on the pitch. Each positive result strengthens his position, while each strong performance adds weight to the argument that he deserves the role permanently. If his current trajectory continues, the pressure on the club to make what Owen sees as the “obvious” choice will only grow stronger.

In the end, the situation reflects a broader question about leadership in modern football: is it better to trust proven internal progress or to gamble on external prestige? According to Owen, the answer, in this case, is clear—and the consequences of getting it wrong could be significant.