Roy Keane has delivered a seemingly contradictory assessment of Michael Carrick's prospects as Manchester United manager, expressing hope that the caretaker boss lands the permanent role whilst simultaneously insisting the club could do better.
The former United captain praised Carrick's work following victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, yet maintained his fundamental position that appointing him would be misguided.
"I hope they give it to him. I hope they give it to him in the summer," Keane stated on The Overlap's Stick to Football podcast.
When Gary Neville reminded him of his earlier criticism, Keane remained steadfast: "I don't think it's the right decision, good luck with it."
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The 54-year-old added: "I think you can get a better manager than Carrick, absolutely."
Keane provoked a strong reaction earlier this week when he declared he would not hand Carrick the job even if United won their remaining 15 league matches, a scenario that would thrust them into title contention.
Despite softening his tone slightly, the former midfielder urged supporters to temper their enthusiasm.
🚨🗣 - Roy Keane and Ian Wright both say Michael Carrick should get the permanent job if United keep performing well:
— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) January 29, 2026
"I hope they give it to Michael Carrick in the summer."
pic.twitter.com/so40kxF947
"It's still only two games. United beat Liverpool earlier in the season. They've found ways to win games of football before," he cautioned.
"The attacking play has been excellent, but they gave up two goals at Arsenal."
He remained unconvinced about Carrick's long-term suitability: "Two great performances but anyone can win two games.
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Five things to know about Man Utd interim boss Michael Carrick | PA/GETTY"Even if they do get into fourth, I still wouldn't be convinced he's the man for the job. Absolutely not."
United's resurgence has coincided with a tactical overhaul under Carrick, who has reverted to a 4-2-3-1 system with Bruno Fernandes operating as a number 10 and Kobbie Mainoo anchoring the midfield.
The formation switch has injected fresh energy into the side, propelling them to fourth place in the Premier League table.
Patrick Dorgu has emerged as a standout performer since being deployed on the left wing, finding the net in both fixtures including a spectacular strike against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Gary Neville declared himself "blown away" by the transformation, suggesting on Sky Sports that the "magic has returned" to Old Trafford.
Keane, however, remained characteristically measured, noting that excelling as caretaker differs vastly from sustaining success over multiple seasons as permanent manager.
Michael Carrick has won both of his games since returning to Manchester United
| GETTYKeane previously took aim at Carrick's wife Lisa Roughead during the podcast, reigniting a dispute that dates back over a decade.
The pundit accused her of having "a big mouth" and joked that she was "probably doing the team talk" for United.
The barb reopened wounds from 2014, when United suffered a 2-0 defeat to Olympiacos in the Champions League with Carrick in the starting lineup.
Keane criticised Carrick's post-match interview as "flat" and lacking urgency, prompting Lisa to respond furiously on Twitter.
"Roy Keane what a ****, says anything to provoke a reaction," she wrote before swiftly removing the post.
She later acknowledged: "Deleted my tweet... Emotions got the better of me."