Michael Carrick spent 136 games in charge of Middlesbrough before leaving in June 2025

Manchester United fans have a song about Michael Carrick.

It starts with the words 'I can't believe it's not Scholes'.

This is apt. In the media-driven world of modern football, Carrick is one of the most understated individuals you can find.

He didn't court publicity as a player – to his detriment some might say – and didn't go out of his way to make headlines as a manager at Middlesbrough.