Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough Tenure: A Three-Year Chapter Closes
MANCHESTER, 25 January 2026 – Eight months after his departure from the Riverside Stadium, Michael Carrick’s three-year spell as Middlesbrough manager is now viewed through the lens of a promising project that ultimately fell short of its primary goal. Appointed in October 2022, the former Manchester United midfielder initially sparked a remarkable revival, but consecutive seasons outside the play-offs led to his exit in June 2025, paving the way for his return to Old Trafford.
A Rescue Mission in Teesside
Carrick arrived at Middlesbrough on 24 October 2022, taking on his first permanent managerial role. He inherited a team in crisis, sitting 21st in the Championship and just one point above the relegation zone following a poor start under Chris Wilder. Despite losing his first game in charge, Carrick’s impact was swift and profound. His progressive, possession-based style – quickly dubbed ‘CarrickBall’ by supporters – transformed the team’s fortunes. He won 16 of his first 23 league games, orchestrating a stunning climb up the table.
The Peak and Subsequent Plateau
The 2022/23 campaign culminated in a remarkable fourth-place finish and a trip to the play-off semi-finals, where Boro were narrowly defeated by Coventry City. This achievement, from such a lowly starting position, earned Carrick the EFL Championship Manager of the Month award for March 2023 and significant praise. However, the following two seasons saw the club plateau. An eighth-place finish in 2023/24 was accompanied by a memorable run to the Carabao Cup semi-finals. The 2024/25 season ended in a tenth-place finish, with the team winning just one of their final six matches, resulting in the club’s decision to part ways with Carrick on 4 June 2025.
Michael Carrick’s Managerial Record at Middlesbrough
| Season | Championship Finish | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 4th (Play-off semi-finals) | Took over with club 21st; remarkable turnaround. |
| 2023/24 | 8th | Carabao Cup semi-finalists (lost to Chelsea). |
| 2024/25 | 10th | Parted ways with club after season concluded. |
From Midfield Maestro to Dugout
Carrick’s managerial philosophy was undoubtedly shaped by his illustrious playing career. A defensive midfielder renowned for his intelligence and passing range, he enjoyed 12 trophy-laden years at Manchester United, winning five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008. He earned 34 caps for England and retired in 2018, immediately moving into coaching at Old Trafford. He served as caretaker manager for three games in 2021, remaining unbeaten, before embarking on his Middlesbrough adventure.
What Next for Carrick and Boro?
Carrick’s departure, along with assistants Jonathan Woodgate and Graeme Carrick, marked the end of an era at the Riverside. The club thanked the trio for their “hard work and unwavering commitment.” For Carrick, the road led back to Manchester United, where he returned as head coach in January 2026. For Middlesbrough, the search began for a new manager to finally achieve the Premier League promotion that eluded Carrick’s promising project.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Michael Carrick leave Middlesbrough?
Michael Carrick was sacked by Middlesbrough on 4 June 2025, after the club finished 10th in the Championship.
What was Michael Carrick’s record as Middlesbrough manager?
Across all competitions, Carrick oversaw 140 matches as Boro boss, winning 66, drawing 25, and losing 49, giving him a win rate of approximately 47%.
Where is Michael Carrick now?
Carrick returned to Manchester United, taking over as head coach on 13 January 2026.
Did Michael Carrick get Middlesbrough promoted?
No. Carrick’s best finish was 4th in the 2022/23 season, but the team lost in the play-off semi-finals. They finished 8th and 10th in the following two campaigns.