Sir Jim Ratcliffe Praises Carrick, Claims Manchester United 'are thinking about the Champions League'

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has hailed interim head coach Michael Carrick for an “excellent job” since taking the reins in January and insists the club are now firmly “thinking about the Champions League.”

Carrick, 44, was promoted from within after Ruben Amorim’s departure and has overseen six victories in eight matches, propelling United to third place in the Premier League with seven or eight fixtures remaining.

Speaking to Sky Sports at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, Ratcliffe praised the former midfielder’s instant impact: “He’s doing an excellent job. Clearly, we are thinking about that (Champions League), but there are still seven or eight games to go.”

The INEOS billionaire, whose company also holds a stake in Mercedes-Benz, refused to be drawn on whether Carrick could earn the role on a permanent basis, reiterating that the club will undertake a comprehensive managerial review rather than rush an appointment.

United’s hierarchy fast-tracked Carrick into the dugout because of his deep knowledge of the squad and club culture, qualities they believe allow him to handle the pressure of a top-four chase without a bedding-in period, according to The Athletic.

Carrick, addressing reporters on Friday, struck an optimistic tone: “Certainly we want to keep improving and we want to keep moving up the table. At the moment, being around where we are, it’s an exciting time because we’ve got something to play for. We would love to be playing for something a little bit more, a little bit higher and really challenging for leagues.”

Off the pitch, Ratcliffe remains a polarising figure among fans after controversial remarks in February forced a public apology. During the recent 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, supporters displayed a banner that read: “MUFC proudly colonised by immigrants,” a direct response to the 73-year-old’s earlier comments.

Next up for Carrick’s resurgent side is a pivotal home clash on Sunday against Aston Villa, who currently occupy fourth spot and also harbour Champions League ambitions. With European qualification at stake, the Theatre of Dreams is braced for a high-stakes encounter that could shape the remainder of United’s season.

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