Manchester United are suddenly looking good again. After Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, the Red Devils have climbed to third place in the Premier League. They've grabbed 19 points from 24, and suddenly Champions League football looks very realistic.
But here's the thing - nobody knows if Carrick will still be in charge next season. His contract runs out in May, and United are keeping their options wide open. It's a bit of a waiting game right now.
Carrick has genuinely impressed the bosses at Old Trafford. He started with stunning wins against Manchester City and Arsenal, and kept that momentum going. He's also handled the media brilliantly and doesn't seem overwhelmed by the pressure like his predecessors sometimes did.
However, United aren't rushing to hand him the job permanently. They want to be thorough about this decision. Carrick has exceeded expectations, but the club knows this good run could fade. They're taking their time to get this hire right.
Who Else Could Take the United Job?
Thomas Tuchel extending with England and Carlo Ancelotti likely staying with Brazil has changed everything. Both were on United's radar, and both have won the Champions League. That's the profile United really want - a manager with elite trophies on their CV.
Now the list includes Unai Emery, Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner, Roberto De Zerbi, and Julian Nagelsmann. Mauricio Pochettino isn't being considered because United expect him to return to Tottenham after the World Cup.
The problem? Emery is probably the only one fans would see as a clear upgrade, but he wants control over transfers. That doesn't fit with United's structure under Omar Berrada, Jason Wilcox, and Christopher Vivell.
For anyone betting on top four finishes next season, who manages United will be crucial. Carrick has proven he can get results, but does he have the tactical depth for a full campaign?
Transfer Plans Are Already in Motion
United know exactly what they need this summer - two central midfielders and a left winger. Casemiro's contract expires, and at 34, he won't be renewed. Despite scoring six Premier League goals this season, United need to move on.
Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is the top target. United believe they can beat Manchester City to his signature. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Brighton's Carlos Baleba are also possibilities.
Newcastle's Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães would be dream signings, but United know Newcastle make deals almost impossible. Just look at how they handled the Alexander Isak situation with Liverpool last summer.
The good news? Kobbie Mainoo is staying. Carrick revived his career after Amorim kept overlooking him. The 20-year-old England midfielder is now central to United's plans, though he still needs to sign a new contract.
United also want another left winger despite Patrick Dorgu's good form before his hamstring injury. They tried signing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in January but couldn't match Manchester City's wage offer.
The big money problem remains. United still owe £422 million in transfer fees, with £238 million due by the end of next season. They're trying to shift players who haven't worked out - Rasmus Højlund (£64 million), Joshua Zirkzee (£36.5 million), Manuel Ugarte (£50.5 million), André Onana (£43.8 million), and Mason Mount (£55 million).
Marcus Rashford should find a new club this summer. Barcelona have him on loan with an option to buy for £26 million. Jadon Sancho's nightmare United spell ends when his contract expires, saving £300,000 weekly in wages.
Harry Maguire's future is interesting. The 33-year-old is out of contract but has been important this season. United might offer him another year on reduced wages, but he'll likely get better offers elsewhere.
Then there's Bruno Fernandes. The captain's contract expires in 2026, and he has a £57 million release clause. At 31, this summer might be his last chance for a big payday, probably in Saudi Arabia. But if United make the Champions League, he might stay.
For punters looking at United's season odds, these decisions matter hugely. Two quality midfielders could transform their consistency. And knowing who's managing them by August will give much clearer betting angles for next season's markets.
