Manchester United’s Post-Fergie Cycle Rolls On

BusinessSportsMoneyManchester United’s Post-Fergie Cycle Rolls OnByZak Garner-Purkis,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. An investigative journalist who also writes about European soccer.Follow AuthorApr 28, 2026, 04:38pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 25: Michael Carrick, Head Coach of Manchester United, shows appreciation to the fans following the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Getty ImagesManchester United have been in a persistent cycle of unfulfilled promise since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, leaving fans questioning if true greatness will ever return to Old Trafford.​There have been six permanent and four caretaker managers at Old Trafford since the Scot departed in 2013, and while some trophies have been won, the Red Devils have never been close to recapturing the greatness they possessed under his leadership.Most enjoyed promising honeymoon periods that ultimately faded.On five occasions that bosses have been sacked midway through the season, the man United have turned to has been an ex-player who thrived under Ferguson’s guidance.And while Ryan Giggs and Ruud Van Nistelrooy did little to suggest they could take the mantle on full-time, Ole Gunnar Solskjær impressed so much he was given the job.History appears to be repeating itself in 2026, with Michael Carrick having strung together a series of impressive results since taking over from Ruben Amorim.Carrick, who is in his second stint as caretaker manager, also has the same lack of managerial pedigree as Solskjær - with only an unimpressive spell at Championship side Middlesbrough on his CV.So it may not be surprising that, when asked about comparisons to the Norwegian former boss, the...