WAYNE ROONEY has urged Manchester United to avoid taking a gamble on Roberto De Zerbi — and instead give Michael Carrick the job permanently.
The Old Trafford legend believes the club should stick with the man currently in the dugout rather than turning to an outside candidate.
Carrick has impressed since stepping in as caretaker boss, winning over supporters and players alike.
His side have collected 22 points from a possible 27 during a strong run of results.
Rooney believes that form should put Carrick firmly at the front of the queue for the full-time role.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Rooney said: “Yeah. They are different humans, and obviously Michael was part of that group with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as well.
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“I think Ole actually done OK with Manchester United, got to a Europa League final and was unlucky not to win that.
“They lost on penalties, but the club has needed rebuilding a little bit in terms of trying to get back to the top and back to winning major trophies.”
Rooney also pointed to Carrick’s long association with United as a key advantage.
He added: “Michael knows, he’s been at that club, he was at that club for a long time, he knows what that takes.
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“He’s a good manager and I think he’s shown that.”
The former England captain questioned why the club would risk bringing in someone new when Carrick has momentum.
Rooney said: “He’s shown everyone he has no problem managing at this level, the players have responded to him, the fans are responding to him.
“So why would you change it?”
Rooney then raised doubts about appointing Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi, who left his role as head coach of Marseille by mutual consent on February 11, 2026.
He said: “Why would you go and try to find someone who is a risk like if you say De Zerbi?
“It’s another one where you’re going into thinking this could be a risk and you take another backwards step if that doesn’t work.
“So for me, Carrick has to get it.”
Despite Rooney’s warning, De Zerbi continues to attract interest from top clubs.
Tottenham are among those considering the Italian as they look for a new manager.
Spurs caretaker Igor Tudor has endured a nightmare spell since stepping in, losing four games and drawing once.
Reports claim the North London side admire De Zerbi and have been tracking him for months.
However, a move is thought to be difficult to complete at this stage.
Manchester United sit third in the Premier League with Michael Carrick certainly impressing for the full-time role.
However, he faces competition from a vacancy shortlist that includes Oliver Glasner, Luis Enrique, Andoni Iraola, and Julian Nagelsmann.
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