Full Breakdown
Antonio Valencia Says He Would Return to Manchester United to Work with Manager Michael Carrick
6/16/2026, 12:51:04 AM
Core Event: Valencia’s Public Expression of Interest
Former Manchester United player Antonio Valencia announced that he would be willing to re-join the club in any capacity if approached by current manager Michael Carrick. Valencia made the comments during an interview with the outlet Hajper while discussing his role as a World Cup pundit for Telemundo Deportes.
Background & Context: United Tenure, Retirement, and Punditry
Valencia signed for Manchester United in 2009 and spent ten seasons with the club, retiring from professional football in 2021 after nearly 500 career appearances. Following retirement he transitioned to media work, joining Telemundo Deportes as a commentator for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Michael Carrick, a former United teammate of Valencia, was appointed permanent manager in May 2024 after an interim spell that saw United qualify for the UEFA Champions League and finish third in the Premier League.
Key Figures & Organizations
- Antonio Valencia – Ecuadorian former United right-back/winger, now television pundit.
- Michael Carrick – Former United midfielder, appointed United manager in 2024.
- Manchester United Football Club – English Premier League side.
- Telemundo Deportes – Spanish-language sports broadcaster under NBC Sports Group.
Data & Statistics: Appearances, Goals, Trophies
- United appearances: 339 matches.
- United goals: 25.
- Major honours with United: 2 Premier League titles, multiple domestic cups, 1 UEFA Europa League trophy.
- Career total appearances (all clubs): close to 500.
Official Statements & Responses
Valencia explained that he had contacted Carrick after the latter’s appointment, sending a message of support. He described Carrick as a respected colleague and expressed confidence in the manager’s progress. Valencia also noted his personal affinity for United, stating that the club “gave me so much” and that his family “was very happy there.” He added that he would consider any role at United “out of passion” and that he believes the club’s current direction is positive. The remarks were made without indication of a formal offer from United.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Commenting on Carrick’s time at the club so far, he stated, “I sent him a message wishing him success.” — Antonio Valencia, former Manchester United player
- “Carrick is someone I respect and care about a lot.” — Antonio Valencia
- “Yes, I would go back. Manchester United is a club that gave me so much. My family was very happy there. I would work for Manchester United in any role, out of passion. It is a club I love a lot. I think everything they are doing is going well. But if they called me, I would go running.” — Antonio Valencia
- “My family was very happy there. I would work for Manchester United in any role, out of passion. It is a club I love a lot. I think everything they are doing is going well.” — Antonio Valencia
- “But if they called me, I would go running.” — Antonio Valencia
What’s Next: Potential Role and Fan Reception
Should United extend an invitation, Valencia would likely join the club’s staff in a capacity aligned with his experience, such as coaching, scouting, or ambassadorial duties. Given his status as a former captain and long-serving player, supporters are expected to receive his return positively. No official confirmation of a role has been announced, and United’s management has not publicly responded to Valencia’s statements.
