Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has been named among the three nominees for the Premier League Manager of the Season award, joining Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and West Ham’s David Moyes in the final shortlist. The announcement, secured by this reporter, marks the first time Carrick has been recognized for the prestigious accolade since taking interim charge at Old Trafford in November.

Carrick’s nomination follows a remarkable resurgence at Manchester United, where he has steered the club to eight wins in his first 12 league matches, including a 4-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in March. The former England midfielder, who retired from playing in 2018, has overseen a tactical shift that has revitalized a squad struggling under his predecessor Erik ten Hag. His calm demeanor and man-management have drawn praise from players and pundits alike, with forward Alejandro Garnacho describing Carrick’s impact as "transformative."

Arteta, in contention for a third time, has guided Arsenal to the Premier League title for the first time in 20 years, securing 29 wins from 33 matches. His side’s relentless pressing and defensive solidity have set a new benchmark for consistency in the league. Meanwhile, Moyes has defied expectations at West Ham, leading the club to a top-four finish and a first-ever UEFA Champions League qualification. His pragmatic approach has turned a mid-table side into European contenders.

The decision on who will lift the award rests with a panel of 27 experts from the Premier League’s official broadcast and digital partners. Voting opened on Monday and closes at midnight on Sunday, with the winner to be revealed at a ceremony in London. Past winners include Pep Guardiola, Jürgen Klopp, and José Mourinho, underscoring the prestige of the honor.

Carrick’s inclusion in the shortlist has sparked debate among pundits, with some questioning whether an interim manager should be eligible for such a high-profile award. However, the Premier League’s rules do not exclude caretakers, and Carrick’s influence on United’s resurgence has been undeniable. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, a pundit for Sky Sports, argued that Carrick’s impact "goes beyond interim status," citing his ability to unify a fractured squad.

The nominees reflect a season of contrasts—Carrick’s rise from the dugout, Arteta’s crowning achievement, and Moyes’ redemption. The award ceremony on May 11 will cap a dramatic Premier League campaign, where managerial decisions have often overshadowed on-field drama. For Carrick, a win would be a historic milestone, cementing his place in United’s managerial folklore and proving that even interim roles can yield permanent legacies.