In recent news, former England and Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, has expressed his willingness to rejoin Manchester United as a coach. This comes in the wake of speculations that Michael Carrick might be appointed as the caretaker boss for the club.
Michael Carrick, a former teammate of Rooney both at United and England, has emerged as a favourite candidate for the interim role at Old Trafford. This follows after Ruben Amorim was dismissed from his position on 5th January.
Carrick previously had a three-game stint as United's temporary boss following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's dismissal in 2021. During this period, he led the team to two victories and one draw before stepping down upon Ralf Rangnick's arrival as an interim manager.
Darren Fletcher steps in
Meanwhile, Darren Fletcher - another former teammate of Rooney - has been given temporary responsibility for first-team affairs following Amorim’s departure. He oversaw the Premier League draw against Burnley and also managed during their 2-1 FA Cup defeat against Brighton.
Club officials are hopeful about having a caretaker appointment ready when players return to training on Wednesday. Rooney shared his thoughts on this matter during an episode of BBC podcast The Wayne Rooney Show. As United's record goalscorer himself, he stated that it would be a "no-brainer" for him to join Manchester United again if offered such an opportunity under Carrick’s leadership.
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United legend, said:
"Whether Michael goes in or if that's Fletch [Darren Fletcher] or John O'Shea or myself, it needs people who know the football club. Roy Keane - I know Roy has had his opinions, I said about Roy going in earlier in the season. Having people who know the club, who care for the club and understand what it takes to be a Manchester United player - that's where the club needs to be.
"The club has lost its identity, it's lost that family feel, if you like. Whether it's Ole [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] or Michael, this is an opportunity to bring that back, bring the spirit of Manchester United back to the football club. I'm not begging a job here by the way. Just so everyone knows, if I was asked to go in of course I would. Appointing the manager is the most important thing."
Interestingly enough, there have been reports about face-to-face discussions between Solskjaer and the club about a possible return. However, no official confirmation has been made yet. Manchester United fans and sports betting enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the next move from the club. Whether it's Carrick taking over as caretaker boss or Solskjaer making a surprising return, one thing is certain - Rooney's potential involvement in coaching could add an exciting twist to this unfolding narrative at Old Trafford.
