Michael Carrick has stepped down from his role at Manchester United.
The club announced the news via the official website after the final whistle of United’s win over Arsenal.
Carrick had been a first team coach under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, before briefly taking up the caretaker manager role for the past fortnight.
His former United teammate Patrice Evra was working as a pundit for broadcaster Amazon Prime and gave his instant reaction after learning of the news.
Evra said: “Thank you very much and Au Revoir. I was thinking he might stay at the club. I am a bit surprised about that decision.”
Rio Ferdinand also gave his input on Carrick’s exit.
Carrick’s decision
The decision to step down was Carrick’s, rather than being dismissed, or a choice from interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
Carrick explained to Amazon Prime that he did not even speak to Rangnick before taking the decision.
The former United midfielder said he wanted to spend more time with his family, having not had a proper break since he finished his playing career.
He said: “It’s not been an easy one to make, to be honest, but I feel it’s the right one. I’m content with my decision.
“I promised the family that we would have some time together. It feels like the right time to step away. What a way to finish. It’s been the perfect night.”
He only told the players at full-time and admitted they were shocked by the decision.
Carrick can leave with his head held high, having helped United rally after Solskjaer’s departure.
He made big tactical and personnel decisions in his three games in charge, with United winning against Villarreal and Arsenal and drawing at Chelsea.
Carrick will likely get a chance to progress his coaching and managerial career elsewhere.
Further chances will come his way after this, when he is ready to return to football in 2022. It probably won’t be long until he is back in the dugout elsewhere.
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