According to multiple reports from January 2026, Tottenham contacted or “approached” Michael Carrick regarding the possibility of him becoming their manager—likely on an interim basis—while Thomas Frank was under significant pressure and facing potential sacking.
This occurred before Carrick was appointed as Manchester United’s interim head coach (following Ruben Amorim’s departure). Reports indicate that had he not taken the United job, Carrick would have been a strong contender for an interim role at Spurs.
Key sources include:talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, who stated Spurs “approached” Carrick before his United move.
Coverage from Football365 and other outlets confirms Tottenham sounded him out as Frank was in “serious danger” of being sacked.
Carrick, who played for Tottenham from 2004–2006 before joining Manchester United, has since performed impressively at United (with wins over top teams like Manchester City and Arsenal), leading to speculation (e.g., from Paul Scholes) that he could still be a future option for Spurs if Frank’s position becomes untenable.
Note that this was before recent matches, including the upcoming Manchester United vs. Tottenham game, where Carrick has prepared thoroughly (even sending tactical analysts to Spurs games). No reports suggest a more recent approach as of early February 2026.
