Amidst the corridors of Old Trafford, a new development has emerged regarding the managerial vacancy at Manchester United. The Red Devils are deliberating over whether to bring back Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Michael Carrick as interim manager, after their decision to part company with Ruben Amorim earlier this week. Amorim’s tenure came to an end due to a combination of poor results and an irreconcilable clash with the board over recruitment strategies.
Since his dismissal, United have been in pursuit of a temporary manager to guide them through to the summer months, at which point they aim to secure a more experienced head coach for the long haul. Currently, club icon Darren Fletcher holds the managerial reins. However, Fletcher’s prospects of continuing were dented following United’s lacklustre 2-2 draw with Burnley midweek.
In the wake of this result, Solskjaer and Carrick have found themselves locked in a contest for the temporary position. Carrick, who honed his managerial skills at Middlesbrough, previously served as Solskjaer’s assistant at United. According to The Guardian, there’s potential for the duo to reunite. It was suggested: “Should Berrada and Wilcox opt for Solskjaer as a caretaker for the second time, it is expected Carrick would contemplate a return as his assistant.”
Nevertheless, Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett now casts doubt over this prospect, suggesting it’s ‘increasingly unlikely’ that both Solskjaer and Carrick will be appointed together. It’s understood that INEOS views both men as lead candidates, and not as a managerial duo.
In the interim, the managerial decision by INEOS has been postponed, allowing Fletcher to continue in his role for Sunday’s eagerly awaited FA Cup clash against Brighton. The club remains composed, focusing on due diligence over a hasty appointment. The delay not only stems from Solskjaer and Carrick’s personal commitments but also reflects the club’s satisfaction with Fletcher’s interim leadership.
United have been notably impressed with Fletcher’s approach, both in media engagements and his interactions on the training ground at Carrington. His pre-existing rapport with much of the squad has further cemented his position in the short term.
The saga continues, with the footballing world watching to see who will next take the managerial baton at Manchester United.