There has been little for Michael Carrick to complain about so far at Manchester United, which has meant no need for him to use Sir Alex Ferguson’s most infamous tool.
After five games in charge of Manchester United, Michael Carrick remains unbeaten, pushing the Red Devils toward Champions League football.
For this reason, it has been all smiles at the club since Carrick’s arrival in January, which means the players haven’t yet seen the angrier side of him.
Now, he has revealed his stance on giving the players a version of Sir Alex Ferguson’s hairdryer treatment.
Prove me wrong: Michael Carrick has already shown enough to become permanent Man United manager.
13 points from 15 would be title winning form over a full season…
Michael Carrick on using the Sir Alex Ferguson hairdryer treatment on players
During the successful Ferguson era at United, numerous players were on the receiving end of the ‘hairdryer treatment’.
But Carrick isn’t sure he would replicate this.
Carrick spoke with BBC Sport, and in this interview, he was asked whether he had to shout at players yet.
“I haven’t yet, no. There’s a time for all sorts of emotions, and that’s the beauty of being in this position, to tap on the right kinds of buttons to get the right reactions.”
He was then prompted on the infamous hairdryer treatment.
“Sir Alex’s hairdryer? I’m not sure I could replicate that. I wouldn’t try to! A couple of times I’ve seen it, and it puts you in the back of your seat, trying to get further away from it.
“But, again, you’re talking about Sir Alex, and he was the genius at using people and getting the best out of people in so many different ways – support, pushing, a bit stronger than pushing at times. But it worked. It was all about getting the best out of his players.”
Carrick is a different person from Ferguson and has clearly expressed his desire to steer clear of this. But it won’t always be possible.
Michael Carrick is just another Ole Gunnar Solskjaer with better players: __ % AGREE
Fill in the blank. Is Carrick actually a better coach, or are we falling for the same trap again?
Carrick’s calmness means hairdryer treatment unlikely in Manchester United dressing room
During his 14-month reign, Ruben Amorim had multiple instances of aggression with his players, which included punching TVs, according to reports.
On the contrary, Carrick has the kind of calmness and confidence that will inspire his team, and if he gets angry, they will know that it’s justified, like with Ferguson.
Carrick has had no reason to be annoyed yet, five games unbeaten and thrilling, dramatic games. But there will be a time when he needs to keep the players in line, and he had the best mentor teaching him how to do this.
Carrick played under Ferguson and coached alongside Jose Mourinho, so he won’t be a soft touch, but it won’t be the ‘hairdryer treatment’ that he uses, given he is his own man.
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