Sesko Throws Support Behind Carrick for Permanent Manchester United Position

"He's an incredible coach, no question. The energy he's brought is completely different. What we're doing in training sessions is remarkable." Those were Benjamin Sesko's words in the mixed zone following Monday's victory over Brentford — and the Slovenian striker isn't the only one singing Carrick's praises.

Since taking the reins as caretaker manager on January 13, Michael Carrick has guided Manchester United to nine Premier League victories. The Red Devils sat in sixth place when he arrived. Now they occupy third spot, firmly positioned in a Champions League qualifying position and looking down at their rivals. This type of transformation doesn't just happen by chance, and the squad recognizes the impact.

Players united in their support

Sesko has thrived under Carrick's guidance — the forward is posting goal tallies he's never achieved before at Old Trafford, and their touchline hug following the final whistle against Brentford spoke volumes beyond any interview soundbite.

Amad and Bryan Mbeumo echoed similar sentiments at Carton House during United's Irish training camp earlier this month. Amad described him as "the right man" for the job. Mbeumo stated he "enjoys playing for him." When a dressing room shows this level of unanimous support for a candidate, ignoring those voices would be a risky move for club executives.

Carrick is handling the situation with calculated precision. He's confirmed discussions are underway, noted his views are "part of" those conversations, and emphasized he's focused on long-term planning rather than quick fixes. This isn't someone trying to distance himself from permanent consideration. This is someone executing a flawless audition.

The bigger picture

Manchester United haven't made any official announcement yet. Club insiders mention a "comprehensive evaluation process," the type of corporate speak that typically precedes a widely anticipated decision. Since assuming control, Carrick has posted the highest points-per-match average of any manager in England's top division. The statistics build a compelling case.

For United's championship aspirations to become relevant again — they haven't been for 13 years — stability represents the foundation, not a workaround. Carrick hoisted five Premier League trophies during his playing days at Old Trafford. He knows what success requires at this institution. Whether the board places enough faith in that knowledge to formalize his appointment remains the lone outstanding question.

When questioned about Champions League qualification being achievable, he was characteristically straightforward: "That's not something we should all be celebrating." Third position isn't the ultimate goal. Carrick understands that reality. The players supporting him understand it too.