The former Manchester United coach under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was named temporary boss for three matches but has decided to leave Old Trafford following Ralf Rangnick’s appointment
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Michael Carrick has announced he is leaving Manchester United following his final game in temporary charge.
Carrick took the reins from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following the Norwegian’s sacking, stepping up from coach for three matches.
Carrick oversaw two wins and a draw while Ralf Rangnick was working on getting a visa, with Thursday’s clash with Arsenal his last at United.
He admitted showing loyalty to Solskjaer was a factor in his decision to step down.
Carrick said after the 3-2 win over Arsenal on Amazon: “It’s not been an easy one [decision] to make but I think it’s the right one.
“I wanted to take some time off after I played and I promised my family and it never happened. I have thrown myself into work here for so long and it feels like the right time to step away. I will be back around the place though.”
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Image:
Manchester Evening News)
He added: “Yeah, it’s 100 per cent my decision. We’ve worked so hard to try to bring some success here in recent years, and it’s difficult when you don’t quite get to those heights. But I’ll have great memories of working with great people.”
On Man United’s official website, Carrick explained: “My time at this great club will always rank as the best years of my career. When I first signed over 15 years ago, I never in my wildest dreams could have imagined winning so many trophies and I will certainly never forget the fantastic memories both as a player and as a member of the coaching team.
“However, after a lot of thought and deliberation, I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave the club. I want to place on record my thanks to all of the players and a special mention goes to the backroom staff, working long hours with such a great group of people has been a real pleasure and I have made some long-lasting friendships.
“I am, and will always be, a Manchester United fan and will come to as many matches as possible. I would like to wish Ralf, the staff, the players and the fans all the best for the future and I look forward to being in the stands and supporting the boys as a fan.”
John Murtough, Manchester United’s director of football, added: “Michael leaves with the sincerest thanks and best wishes of everyone at Manchester United after 15 years of exceptional service to the club as a player and as a coach. While we are sad to see him go, we respect and understand Michael’s decision.
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Image:
Manchester United via Getty Images)
“He will always be known as one of the finest midfielders in the history of Manchester United, and, more recently, as an excellent coach who has worked tirelessly under two managers to help develop the strong squad which Ralf will now take charge of.
“We are grateful for the steady leadership Michael has shown through this period of managerial transition, and, while he is now stepping away from day-to-day involvement, he will always be welcome back as a legend of the club.”
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