Michael Carrick now faces the real test of his managerial career. After guiding Manchester United back into the Champions League during an impressive interim spell, the former midfielder has been rewarded with the permanent manager’s role at Old Trafford. Having played down the achievement of securing a top-four finish, Carrick knows the tougher journey begins now.

Few could argue that Carrick hasn’t earned his chance. Since stepping in for Darren Fletcher in January following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, he has overseen 11 wins and three draws from 16 matches, turning United’s fortunes around from sixth to third. His efforts have even seen him nominated for the Premier League Manager of the Season award.

Now, the ex-England international wants to build on that momentum. Speaking ahead of United’s final home fixture of the season against Nottingham Forest, Carrick said, “You’ve always got to aim upwards, for sure. That’s the beauty of football and competition – to achieve something, then back it up, then improve on things. That’s always the challenge. For the players, the squad, the group, and the club, we must keep moving in a positive direction.”

How can United ensure that progress continues? As the club prepares to officially announce Carrick as permanent head coach on a two-year deal, here are six major priorities he must focus on.

1. Establish a clear identity

While Carrick’s results since taking over from Amorim have been impressive, some supporters remain concerned about the lack of a clear tactical identity. There is a strong desire to avoid repeating the pitfalls of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure, and comparisons between the two are inevitable.

Up to this point, Carrick’s focus has understandably been on results, and he has delivered Champions League qualification. Yet, critics argue that several performances have lacked cohesion, often relying on individual brilliance or opponents’ mistakes. Now, with a full pre-season ahead, Carrick must shape a playing style rooted in Manchester United’s attacking traditions and tactical clarity.

2. Replace Casemiro

One of Carrick’s biggest challenges this summer will be finding a successor for veteran midfielder Casemiro. The Brazilian has enjoyed a late revival under Carrick, scoring five crucial goals during the run-in. However, his departure was confirmed back in January, and the club will regret not extending his deal beyond this season.

Fans’ recent chants of “One more year” underline Casemiro’s importance, but the 34-year-old has ruled out any change of heart. Carrick and United’s recruitment team must now identify an adequate replacement, though such talent will come at a premium. Premier League-proven players like Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton, along with Atalanta’s Ederson, have all been linked as possible options.

3. Smart recruitment

This summer could be pivotal for United’s long-term ambitions. After finishing third, they have a golden opportunity to rejoin the title race, even though clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City remain ahead. Success in the transfer market will be crucial to bridging that gap.

Last year’s transfer window delivered positive returns, with Premier League-experienced players such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo proving valuable additions. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens has impressed since arriving from Belgium, while striker Benjamin Sesko has found form under Carrick, scoring seven goals since February. United must continue making such efficient signings to maintain momentum and strengthen for battles across four competitions.

4. Retain Bruno Fernandes

Another major priority is keeping hold of captain Bruno Fernandes, arguably the Premier League’s standout performer this season. The Portuguese playmaker admitted last December that he nearly left Old Trafford after United’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham and a disappointing 15th-place finish, with lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia tempting him.

Carrick will hope that the team’s revival and Champions League return convince Fernandes to stay put despite renewed interest. His recent comments offer optimism: “It’s not a question of loyalty,” Bruno said. “I could have gone two years ago, three years ago, or last season, but I love being here. Success at this club would mean more to me than anything elsewhere. The joy I’d get from achieving my goals here is something no other club in the world could match.”

5. Offload surplus players

To reshape the squad and raise funds under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS’s frugal ownership, United must also clear out players who no longer fit. Several loanees returning to the club have no long-term role, and others have struggled to justify their wages or squad places.

Names such as Marcus Rashford, Andre Onana, and Manuel Ugarte top the list of possible departures. With Jadon Sancho out of contract and Rasmus Hojlund’s loan switch from Napoli becoming permanent after their Champions League qualification, Carrick must make decisive calls. Questions also remain over Mason Mount and Joshua Zirkzee. Ruthless decision-making will be vital to prevent the club from being weighed down by underperforming assets.

6. Promote academy talent

Finally, Carrick has the opportunity to revitalise United’s famous youth system. During Ruben Amorim’s tenure, academy prospects were largely overlooked. Carrick’s task will be to provide pathways for the next generation of homegrown stars.

Youngsters like winger Shea Lacey, midfielder Jack Fletcher, and forward Chido Obi could all earn senior opportunities after pre-season. Then there’s JJ Gabriel—the 15-year-old attacker recently named Under-18 Premier League Player of the Season—whose immense potential demands careful management. Integrating these talents could be key to sustaining long-term success under Carrick’s leadership.