Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is in talks with Manchester United about returning as the new term manager following the sacking of Ruben Amorim. Reports say the former boss has held positive discussions with club officials, and he is open to any terms on contract length or salary.
The Norwegian, a club legend as a player, managed United from 2018 to 2021. He started as caretaker after Jose Mourinho left and earned a permanent role with strong early results. Fans remember big wins, like the comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. But a poor run in late 2021 led to his exit. Since then, he has had short spells at Cardiff City and Besiktas, leaving the Turkish club last year. He has stayed out of management until now.
Amorim’s departure came after just 14 months. United sit mid-table, and recent losses have piled up pressure. The board wants an interim boss until summer, then a permanent hire. Sources say Solskjaer leads the shortlist. He wants the job and has told the club he would accept whatever they offer. Talks moved fast, with informal chats turning serious quickly.
Other former players are in the mix too. Michael Carrick, who managed Middlesbrough until recently, has spoken with officials. Darren Fletcher, now on the coaching staff, could step up short-term. Ruud van Nistelrooy handled a few games as interim last time. But Solskjaer’s history gives him an edge. Senior players like Bruno Fernandes reportedly back his return.
Fans have mixed feelings. Many still love Solskjaer for his 1999 Champions League winner and the good times he brought as manager. A return could lift spirits at Old Trafford. Others worry it looks backward when the club needs fresh ideas under INEOS ownership. Social media shows debates, with some calling it a safe choice and others wanting a bigger name.
For the permanent job, names like Oliver Glasner from Crystal Palace come up often. Eddie Howe and others get mentions too. The plan seems to be to steady things now, then go big in summer. No announcement yet, but things could move soon. Solskjaer was spotted back in Cheshire recently, close to Manchester.
United face tough games ahead. An interim needs quick impact. Solskjaer knows the club inside out, from youth teams to the first team. He rebuilt some pride after tough years. Players like Kobbie Mainoo or younger ones might respond well to him.
This story brings back memories. Solskjaer’s playing days made him a hero. That late goal against Bayern Munich lives forever. As manager, he got United to second place once. But heavy defeats, like to Liverpool, hurt. Still, many feel he deserved more time.
If he comes back, even short-term, it would surprise plenty. The club has changed owners and structure since he left. INEOS wants progress. An old face might help bridge to the next era.
No word from Solskjaer himself yet. He keeps things quiet usually. The club stays silent too while talks go on. Fans wait for news. Whatever happens, United need points soon to climb the table.
This could be a feel-good move or a risk. Time will tell. For now, Solskjaer sits as the frontrunner. Old Trafford might see a familiar face on the touchline again.