Manchester United are reportedly lining up Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to return as interim manager for the second time following the recent sacking of Ruben Amorim. Solskjaer, who first served as caretaker manager for 17 games in the 2018-19 season before being made permanent, is now considered the frontrunner to take charge until the end of the season.
The club has also engaged former United player and caretaker Michael Carrick, who managed an unbeaten three-game spell in 2021, as well as interim coach Darren Fletcher. While Fletcher will lead the team for the next two matches, the club is evaluating all options for the interim role.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Return: Key Details
- Name: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
- Role: Interim Manager (Leading Contender)
- Previous Manchester United Tenure: December 2018 – November 2021
- Record at United: Two successive top-four finishes, Europa League final appearance
- Current Availability: Recently departed Besiktas
- Other Interim Candidates: Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher
- Expected Decision Timeline: Before Manchester derby on January 17
- Director Leading Search: Jason Wilcox
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer first joined Manchester United as caretaker manager in December 2018. After a promising start, he was made the permanent manager but was dismissed in November 2021 following a difficult six-week run that included five losses in seven Premier League matches. Despite the challenges, Solskjaer guided United to two consecutive top-four finishes, marking the first time a manager had achieved this since Sir Alex Ferguson.
After leaving United, Solskjaer managed Turkish side Besiktas, leaving in September 2025 following their elimination from the Conference League play-offs. Solskjaer has maintained close ties with Manchester United, frequently attending events and reuniting with former teammates, leaving the door open for a potential return.
Current Interim Setup at Manchester United
Darren Fletcher, the club’s Under-21 coach, is currently serving as interim head coach. He will lead United against Burnley in the Premier League and Brighton in the FA Cup while discussions continue. Fletcher has emphasized the honor of managing United, describing it as “surreal” and “an amazing privilege,” though he acknowledged the situation was unexpected.
Despite his inexperience in first-team management, Fletcher is viewed as a promising option for the future. His rapport with players and positive influence on morale has impressed the United hierarchy, making him a candidate alongside more experienced options such as Solskjaer and Carrick.
Reports indicate that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the favorite among potential interim managers. Sky Sports sources reveal that Solskjaer has been informally approached by director of football Jason Wilcox and expressed willingness to return. Fellow former players, including Michael Carrick and Ruud van Nistelrooy, have also been considered, but Solskjaer’s familiarity with the club and his past success make him the leading candidate.
Solskjaer still resides in Cheshire and would be available without compensation, making his return logistically simple for Manchester United. A successful interim spell could also pave the way for a permanent appointment, repeating his previous path from caretaker to full-time manager.
Public and Expert Opinions
Pundits and former players have expressed support for Solskjaer’s potential return. Jamie O’Hara highlighted him as a viable “stopgap manager” capable of restoring player morale and stability. Teddy Sheringham echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Solskjaer’s deep connection to the club and the emotional impact he had during his first tenure.
Solskjaer himself has reflected on his previous stint at United, describing it as a privilege to manage the club while acknowledging the pressures involved. He stated:
“Man United is my family and will always be part of me. In football, you don’t feel sorry for anyone because we are privileged to work in clubs like this. But for me, it is hard to watch because it is your family that is struggling.”
Next Steps for Manchester United
The club aims to have an interim manager in place before the Manchester derby on January 17. Jason Wilcox will lead formal interviews with candidates, with the final decision to be approved by club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. While Fletcher continues to manage the team temporarily, Solskjaer is widely regarded as the frontrunner for the role.
Manchester United also continues to consider external candidates for a potential permanent appointment, with figures like Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner and Newcastle United’s Eddie Howe linked to the post. However, Solskjaer’s combination of experience, availability, and rapport with the club places him at the top of the list.
FAQs:
Who is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer?
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a Norwegian football manager and former Manchester United player who previously managed United from 2018 to 2021.
Why is Solskjaer being considered for Manchester United again?
He is familiar with the club, has prior managerial success, and is available without compensation. He is seen as the most capable interim option following Ruben Amorim’s sacking.
Who else is in the running for the interim manager role?
Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher are also being considered, along with other former players like Ruud van Nistelrooy.
When is a decision expected?
The club hopes to finalize an interim appointment before the Manchester derby on January 17, with Fletcher managing the team in the interim.
Has Solskjaer managed other clubs since leaving Manchester United?
Yes, he managed Turkish club Besiktas but left the club in September 2025 following a Conference League play-off defeat.
