What Is It Like to Be a Caretaker Manager?

Michael Carrick’s New Role at Manchester United

Michael Carrick has been appointed caretaker manager of Manchester United for the remainder of the season as he aims to rejuvenate the club’s Premier League campaign. This role is not new for either Carrick or United, as he previously took charge of three games in the aftermath of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal in 2021.

Historically, the club has experienced its share of interim managers. Following the sacking of José Mourinho in December 2018, Manchester United turned to Solskjaer, who, after an impressive run of results, ultimately earned the job on a full-time basis. The club also hired Ralf Rangnick for a short tenure after Solskjaer’s exit, but failed to impress and left the team in sixth place, without any silverware.

In this context, the hope is that Carrick can replicate the successes of interim managers like Guus Hiddink, who won the FA Cup with Chelsea in 2009, and Roberto di Matteo, who led the same club to victory in both the FA Cup and Champions League in 2012.

But what exactly does a caretaker manager do? How does it differ from a permanent role? And is it a beneficial choice for clubs?

‘They Seem to Believe in Me’

Neil Warnock knows all too well the challenges of stepping into a team during a crisis. His extensive coaching career has included spells at 17 different clubs, including roles as caretaker manager at Rotherham, QPR, Huddersfield, and Aberdeen. He emphasizes the importance of quickly identifying a team’s strengths and addressing the presence of disinterested players.

“When I step into a dressing room, there’s an immediate sense of focus. The players see me as a leader who can help them stay afloat,” Warnock stated.

In contrast, Jobi McAnuff’s experience was different. As the club captain of Leyton Orient in League Two, he was asked to take over after the manager was sacked. Unlike Warnock, McAnuff understood the club’s internal dynamics well, which assisted him in the transition to managing.

“I felt it was necessary to fully commit to this role, leaving my playing days behind,” McAnuff shared. “Balancing both positions would be immensely challenging.”

Opportunity or a Burden?

As clubs face pressure to achieve results quickly, the trend of appointing caretaker managers has become more prevalent. Celtic has turned to 73-year-old Martin O’Neill as caretaker on two occasions this season, following the dismissals of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, leading to a successful stretch of winning eight out of nine games.

Warnock believes that simplicity is critical in revitalizing a struggling team, emphasizing the need for clear communication and immediate leadership.

“Some may see me as outdated, but to me, tactics are secondary to getting the players motivated and focused,” Warnock explained. “Players need guidance and encouragement, and that’s where I thrive.”

How Do Managers Secure Permanent Positions?

Carrick isn’t entirely new to managerial responsibilities, having previously led Middlesbrough, but the pressure at Manchester United is distinct.

“What it boils down to is winning matches,” Phil Brown advised. “When I was at Bolton, winning four out of five games made me feel entitled to the job. But football is unpredictable; bigger names can overshadow you.”

Short-term managers must navigate media scrutiny carefully. Keith Millen has experienced six spells as a caretaker and knows that being overt about wanting the job could backfire if a new permanent manager arrives.

“You have to tread lightly with your comments,” Millen remarked. “Expressing a desire for the job could make potential new arrivals view you as a threat.”

Reflecting on his own interim experience, McAnuff concluded, “This role is invaluable for growth and understanding the unique pressures of management.”

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