Michael Carrick is on the verge of a permanent return to the Manchester United hot seat, with reports suggesting a two-year deal is all but finalized. The 44-year-old interim boss has reportedly reached a broad agreement with the club, offering him a contract until 2028—with an option for an additional season—after emerging as the top candidate to succeed Ruben Amorim on a full-time basis.

Carrick's appointment could be announced as early as Sunday, ahead of United's clash with Nottingham Forest, as talks with his backroom staff continue. The former midfielder has already made his mark since stepping in as interim manager in January, guiding the Red Devils to an impressive 33 points from 15 Premier League matches—the best record in the division during that stretch—and securing Champions League qualification. His stellar run has even earned him a nomination for the league's Manager of the Year award.

Reflecting on his journey, Carrick recently admitted that leading United felt "natural," especially after a memorable victory over Liverpool. "It's a unique football club, a special club," he said during pre-match press conferences. "I'm immensely proud to have come back and been a part of it, to help as a supporter and ex-player. To make a big step and get back in the Champions League is good—we're happy with the work we've done so far."

Initially, Carrick wasn't the frontrunner for the permanent role when he returned to Old Trafford mid-season. However, his transformative impact has won over key figures, including co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, and director of football Jason Wilcox. With his future "pretty close" to being settled, as he hinted on Friday, United fans can look forward to a new chapter under a familiar face who knows the club's DNA inside out.