Michael Carrick, 36, will join the club’s coaching staff after 12 seasons and 464 appearances as a Red Devils player.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho said Michael Carrick could be his assistant manager in the future after the midfielder ended his playing career in a victory over Watford.
Mourinho’s current assistant Rui Faria will leave the club in the summer, ending a 17-year working relationship with his compatriot.
Speaking after the win over Watford, Mourinho said he would not have an assistant next season as “nobody in the world of football is ready”.
“I think it will be Michael Carrick in future when he has his badges,” said Mourinho. “When he has his pro licence, when he makes the bridge from player to assistant.
“I got to Michael in the last part of his career and it was enough to fall in love with the player and person.” Carrick, who was given a guard of honour as he walked onto the pitch with his children before the game, helped set up Marcus Rashford’s decisive goal against Watford.
He lofted a pass to Juan Mata, who squared for Rashford to score in the 34th minute. Former England midfielder Carrick left the field to a standing ovation in the 85th minute as he was replaced by Paul Pogba. He was embraced by several of his team-mates, and Mourinho.
Carrick shows what United will miss
Carrick joined United from Tottenham in 2006 for £18m and has won five Premier League titles and the Champions League in his 12 seasons at Old Trafford.
But appearances in the final season of his 19-year playing career have been limited by an irregular heart rhythm – this was just his fifth match of the campaign, and first since February.
Nevertheless, he showed what United will miss in his absence – making the most passes and having the most touches of any Red Devils player. Sitting deep in midfield, he was calm in possession and mopped up any trouble at the back, before trying to start counter-attacks.
His pass to Mata was trademark Carrick, and United will need to spend in the summer to find a suitable replacement. Carrick told BBC Sport: “It was very special. I had mixed emotions as I have not played a lot of football this year and wanted to win the game going into next week.
“I will just cherish the memories. The reception I got will live with me for the rest of my days, and having the kids and my family with me adds up to something special.
“It is not a sad farewell or goodbye, I am looking forward to next week for starters and we will take it from there.”
Source: BBC News
