In a development that may tug at the heartstrings of Manchester United supporters, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly open to returning to Old Trafford in a managerial capacity, albeit on an interim basis until the season’s end.
Currently unattached following his dismissal by Turkish side Besiktas last August, Solskjaer finds himself linked with a role at his beloved United once more, following the sacking of Ruben Amorim. Amorim’s exit, confirmed on Monday, appeared inevitable after a fractious relationship with sporting director Jason Wilcox came to a head, boiling over in what can only be described as a ‘blow-up’. Underpinning United’s decision was a 1-1 stalemate at Leeds United, which capped off a string of underwhelming performances.
Amorim openly expressed his discontent with the club management in a post-match press conference, declaring his desire to manage instead of being a mere head coach perhaps the final straw for the United hierarchy.
With Ruben Amorim’s seat freshly vacated, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner has emerged as the early front-runner to take over, while Darren Fletcher holds the reins in a caretaker capacity. Names such as England’s Thomas Tuchel, Enzo Maresca, Sir Gareth Southgate, and Middlesbrough’s Michael Carrick are all reportedly in the frame for the permanent position, likely to be filled in the summer.
However, there’s a nostalgic lure in the idea of Solskjaer stepping in temporarily, reminiscent of his initial tenure where he was appointed on a caretaker basis. His debut stint was marked by an inspired sequence of victories, leading to a permanent contract, despite later faltering towards season’s end.
Sources from Manchester World suggest the club’s ownership, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, might not decide on a permanent successor until summer, presenting an opportunity for Solskjaer. The Norwegian could indeed be an appealing choice to guide United towards their target of a top-six Premier League finish this campaign.
Manchester United fans remain fond of Solskjaer, who, despite failing to clinch silverware, guided the club to significant cup semi-finals and impressive league finishes. Since his departure in 2021, the club retained a warm sentiment towards him, acknowledging him as eternally part of the Manchester United family.
So, could the ‘super sub’ of yore don his managerial boots once more at the Theatre of Dreams? If the Old Trafford faithful have any say, a heartwarming return might not be off the cards.