Wayne Rooney has backed Michael Carrick to handle the pressure ahead of this weekend's Manchester derby, while warning fans not to underestimate the calm and composed image of the new Manchester United manager.
Speaking ahead of the Old Trafford showdown, Rooney said Carrick's arrival came at the right time but stressed that the challenge awaiting him is one of the toughest in football.
Manchester United head into the derby looking to restore pride and stability after a turbulent few months that saw another managerial change.
Carrick's appointment has been welcomed by many within the football community, and Rooney, his former teammate and long-time friend, offered insight into what fans can expect from the new head coach.
Photo by John Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images
Rooney's comments came during a recent BBC Radio segment, where he discussed United's form, Carrick's temperament, and what it will take for his side to compete with Manchester City this weekend.
Speaking on his podcast via BBC Radio , Rooney said: "It is probably the obvious choice really because I don't think there are any top, top managers available at the minute.
"I think it is the right choice at this moment in time. It is a difficult task, of course. Where Manchester United are at the minute is not a good place, and Michael has to go in and steady the ship."
He continued, "Michael's great fun. He is a great character, but don't be fooled by how calm he looks. He can have fun as well, but make no mistake, he'd be going in there now with full focus."
Rooney's words capture the balance Carrick brings, a composed, analytical leader who is also fiercely competitive beneath the surface.
The former England captain has long been close to Carrick, having played alongside him for both club and country, and believes his measured approach could be exactly what United need to settle the squad before such a high-stakes fixture.
Carrick's quiet authority has earned praise from players and pundits alike, with many seeing him as a figure capable of stabilising United's dressing room and re-establishing confidence within the squad after a turbulent spell under Ruben Amorim.
Turning his attention to the derby, Rooney added: "It is a massive game for the club, for Michael. I think what he will do is bring a bit of calmness, a bit of grit to the game, which I think is needed.
"It is going to be very difficult, Manchester City are obviously a top team and it will be difficult to get anything out of it even at Old Trafford."
He concluded, stating: "But as we've seen over the years, Manchester United if they do turn up can win the game and hopefully that happens on Saturday."
United face City in a derby that comes with major implications for both sides. Carrick's team will be looking to end a poor run of results against Pep Guardiola's champions, who remain one of Europe's most dominant forces.
The game marks Carrick's first major test since taking charge, and a win would go a long way in boosting confidence at Old Trafford.
Rooney's comments underline both belief and realism, a recognition of City's quality, but also a reminder of United's ability to rise to the occasion.
