Manchester United's board is reportedly preparing for crucial talks with Michael Carrick, as the interim manager's remarkable turnaround since January has made him the frontrunner for the permanent role. The 44-year-old former midfielder took over amid turbulence following Ruben Amorim's rocky tenure, but has since transformed both the mood and results at Old Trafford.

Under Carrick's guidance, United have secured Champions League qualification with three games to spare and are now pushing for a top-three Premier League finish. This dramatic improvement has put the club legend—who previously served as captain and coach—in pole position for the job, with several players publicly backing his appointment.

Reports indicate that chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox will recommend offering Carrick the position at an executive meeting this week. Some bookmakers have even suspended betting on the appointment, signaling growing confidence in the decision. While United have explored other options, Carrick has long been considered the leading candidate.

Carrick is scheduled to face the media on Friday ahead of Sunday's final home game of the season against Nottingham Forest. That match will also provide an emotional farewell for Casemiro, the popular Brazilian midfielder who confirmed his departure in January. Since then, Casemiro has been revitalized under Carrick, scoring five goals and missing just one match—Saturday's 0-0 draw at Sunderland. The 34-year-old was back in training on Wednesday alongside Manuel Ugarte, who had also been sidelined with a back complaint.