David O’Leary sends blunt warning to Michael Carrick over Man Utd job

David O’Leary has sent a blunt message to Michael Carrick as the Manchester United legend edges closer to landing the manager’s job permanently at Old Trafford.

Carrick, who stepped in as interim boss after Ruben Amorim’s departure in January, is reportedly set for formal talks with Manchester United over remaining in charge beyond the current season. 

The 44-year-old has transformed United’s fortunes during his spell in charge, guiding the club from seventh to third in the Premier League table and putting Champions League qualification within reach. His form has reportedly convinced senior figures at Old Trafford that he could be the long-term answer.

Yet former Leeds United and Aston Villa manager David O’Leary believes Carrick is about to discover that taking the role permanently is an entirely different challenge.

Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football, O’Leary admitted he initially doubted whether Carrick would ever be handed the job full-time, but warned that officially becoming Manchester United manager comes with a level of pressure unlike anything an interim spell can prepare someone for. 

O’Leary suggested that while Carrick has impressed so far, the real test begins once the role becomes permanent, with expectations rising across multiple competitions.

He pointed to the demands of balancing Premier League matches, midweek fixtures and major decision-making at one of football’s biggest clubs, insisting that managing Manchester United is a responsibility unlike any other.

“But now that situation’s changed big time,” O’Leary said, adding that Carrick would face a completely different challenge once he officially takes the reins at Old Trafford. 

Carrick’s interim record has been difficult to ignore.

The former midfielder has overseen 10 league wins, three draws and just two defeats in 15 Premier League matches, helping restore momentum after a turbulent first half of the campaign. 

With formal talks reportedly on the horizon, Manchester United’s hierarchy now face a major decision — and if Carrick does land the role permanently, O’Leary believes the biggest challenge may only just be beginning.