Cisse urges patience for Carrick as Keane return gains steam
The former France striker argues United should give the interim manager until December before considering a return for the Irish legend.
By Kwame Silva ·
Manchester United fans have watched their club struggle for several years, a period of difficulty that former France striker Djibril Cisse says requires patience rather than panic. Speaking to Mr. Gamble, Cisse offered a direct assessment of the current interim manager Michael Carrick and the potential future of Roy Keane.
Cisse, who played under Keane at Sunderland, described the former United captain as a strong personality with the weight of history behind him. He noted that Keane wore the armband for many years during the club’s trophy-laden era. "He is an icon of the club," Cisse said. "Bringing him back would be a really good thing."
The former Liverpool and Sunderland forward recalled his time working with Keane, stating that the manager trusted him rather than relying on hearsay about his character. Cisse said he was disappointed when Keane left because they shared a similar approach to honesty and directness. He emphasized that when Keane says something, he means it, and he respected that uncompromising style.
Turning to the current situation at Old Trafford, Cisse warned against making Carrick a scapegoat. He pointed to public support from key dressing-room figures, specifically naming Lisandro Martinez. Cisse argued that Martinez’s backing was not a coincidence and indicated that the senior players stand with the current coach.
"It’s always good to have your squad behind you," Cisse explained. He questioned whether Carrick is truly the main problem, noting that the former midfielder knows the game and has shown tactical knowledge. He asked if Carrick is the one who should be sacrificed, expressing uncertainty about that decision.
Cisse urged the United board to offer Carrick more time, specifically suggesting a deadline of December to gauge progress. He argued that continuity in the squad is valuable and that the players have built a relationship with the manager. "I’d give him more time, at least until December, to see what happens," he added. "Sometimes continuity in the squad and the club is a good thing."
He concluded that while fans and owners often want quick changes, football is not simple. Cisse said Carrick has good qualities and is doing good work, and he advocated for patience as the club navigates this turbulent campaign.
