What happened: Manchester City interim manager Michael Carrick told reporters that "clarity is important" regarding his future, citing the strong end-of-season form that has put the club in a good position. Speaking on his role moving forward, Carrick acknowledged the end-of-season timing makes a decision on his status overdue. The comments come as United have secured Champions League qualification for 2026/27.

Why it matters: Carrick inherited a side sitting 7th and has lifted them to 3rd, sealing Champions League football and stringing together three straight wins including a victory over Liverpool. His public ask for clarity raises pressure on the Ratcliffe-led ownership, who met with Carrick at Carrington in late April. With senior players publicly backing him to stay, the decision now sits squarely with the board.

What to watch: Watch for an official announcement from Manchester United on Carrick's permanent appointment in the days following the season finale. Summer overhaul plans, including Casemiro and Ugarte exits, hinge on the manager decision.