Carrick receives the first disappointing news upon taking the 'hot seat' at MU

Although recently entrusted with leading MU, Michael Carrick quickly faces a less than optimistic reality regarding the club’s personnel plans.

Manchester United’s appointment of Michael Carrick as interim head coach does not bring changes to the winter transfer strategy. According to Sky Sports, MU’s management remains committed to the previously set plan, prioritizing squad stability and avoiding short-term, unsustainable deals in January.

Carrick returns to Old Trafford to manage the team until the end of the season, with MU already eliminated from cup competitions and having 17 Premier League matches remaining. Despite hopes that the new coach might spark a turnaround, the likelihood of him receiving immediate approval for signings is very low, as the club does not want to disrupt the agreed roadmap.

The main reason lies in the long-term strategy. MU believes that the quality targets they are pursuing are not available in the winter transfer window, a period often marked by inflated prices. Instead, Old Trafford views the summer as the optimal time to recruit players at reasonable fees and fitting the team structure.

In fact, MU invested heavily in the summer transfer window, spending a total of £215 million (excluding add-ons) on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Senne Lammens, and Diego Leon. These deals clearly reflect the club’s philosophy: focused, selective recruitment, at the right time, rather than patching up short-term gaps mid-season.

Regarding personnel, the midfield has been identified as an area needing reinforcement by the end of the season. Casemiro’s contract expires in June, while Bruno Fernandes is expected to decide his future only after the World Cup. In an October statement, Fernandes confirmed he had not negotiated with any club before then.

Additionally, Kobbie Mainoo’s future remains uncertain as the young midfielder has yet to secure a starting spot in the Premier League this season. MU considered Carlos Baleba but faced a price tag exceeding £100 million from Brighton, while also monitoring Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton. However, any serious moves are likely reserved for the summer.