Michael Carrick has wasted no time in making his mark at Manchester United, and his very first training session as head coach has already delivered an unexpected talking point.
After several days of intense speculation and behind-the-scenes discussions, Manchester United officially confirmed on Tuesday evening that Carrick would take charge of the first team until the end of the 2025/26 season.
The former United midfielder was selected ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, despite the Norwegian being heavily linked with a return to the Old Trafford dugout.
Speaking shortly after his appointment was made public, Carrick expressed both pride and determination at being handed such a significant responsibility.
He described the role as a huge honour and stressed that his immediate focus would be on restoring the high standards historically associated with the club.
According to Carrick, the current squad has more than enough quality to succeed, and his task is to help the players rediscover consistency, confidence, and belief.
Carrick’s first competitive test will come quickly and brutally, as he prepares the team for Saturday’s high-profile Manchester derby against Pep Guardiola’s City side at Old Trafford.
With little time to settle in, the new boss immediately stepped onto the training pitch at Carrington to begin work with the squad.
However, it wasn’t just Carrick’s presence that caught attention during the session. Reports have now emerged revealing that a surprise name featured among the players training under him for the first time.
According to journalist Nathan Salt, young defender Habeeb Ogunneye was included in the training group, raising eyebrows among supporters and observers alike.
Ogunneye had been out on loan at Newport County, but his game time had reportedly reduced in recent weeks, prompting United to recall him in order to reassess his next steps.
Salt shared the update via social media, noting that Ogunneye’s future is now under review, with the club exploring alternative loan options that could offer him more regular minutes.
His inclusion in Carrick’s first session suggests the interim manager is keen to take a closer look at emerging talent before making decisions.
The session also featured other familiar and developing faces. Jack Fletcher and Tyler Fletcher were both involved with the senior group, alongside first-team regulars such as Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, highlighting Carrick’s willingness to blend youth with experience during his early days in charge.
Manchester United later confirmed the developments in an official statement published on the club’s website. The announcement revealed that two academy players had returned to Carrington following their respective loan spells.
Alongside Ogunneye, striker Joe Hugill has also been recalled, bringing both youngsters back into the first-team environment.
The statement clarified that the recalls were part of an ongoing evaluation process, allowing the coaching staff to reassess development plans and determine the most suitable pathways for the remainder of the season.
Carrick’s early decisions hint at an inclusive and observant approach, with opportunities potentially opening up for young players willing to impress.
While the focus will naturally be on results and performances, especially with a derby looming, his first training session has already signaled that no player’s situation will be overlooked under his leadership.
