Michael Carrick believes Manchester United have retained their unique appeal despite years of decline on the pitch, as he begins his short-term spell as manager at Old Trafford.
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The former United midfielder was appointed head coach until the end of the season earlier this week and faces an immediate challenge with a Manchester derby against city rivals Manchester City on Saturday.
Once overshadowed by United for decades, City have dominated the rivalry since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. Pep Guardiola’s side have finished above United in every Premier League season since then and are again well ahead this campaign, with United currently seventh in the table and 11 points adrift of City.
Despite the club’s struggles, Carrick dismissed claims that Manchester United have lost their identity.
“I certainly don’t think it’s soulless,” Carrick said. “There’s a magic around this place. I feel it. I feel at home straightaway coming back into the building and being around it.
“I’ve been part of this club for a long time, missed a short period, but you can’t help but feel that magic when you’re here.”
Carrick, who won 12 major trophies during his playing career with United, said his temporary status would not prevent him from making decisions with the club’s long-term interests in mind. He also left the door open to staying beyond the current season if his tenure proves successful.
“We’re realistic about where we are and why I’m here,” he said. “But that doesn’t change how we work day to day or how we think about the long-term direction of the squad.
“I’m not approaching this job on a week-to-week survival basis. We want to improve beyond this season. All I can control is what we give the players and the environment we create around the group.”
