Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is expected to hold talks with Manchester United on Tuesday as the club weighs up short term options to stabilise the team following recent instability. The Norwegian, who previously managed the club for nearly three years, is understood to be open to a return on an interim basis, though he faces competition from figures already embedded within the club’s coaching structure.
Manchester United are currently exploring internal and external solutions as they look to restore consistency both on and off the pitch. Sources close to the situation say the club’s leadership believes an interim appointment could provide breathing space while a longer term strategy is developed. Solskjaer’s familiarity with the club and its culture is seen as a key advantage at a moment when stability is a priority.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains a popular figure among sections of the fan base, largely due to his deep connection with the club and his calm leadership style. During his previous spell as manager, he guided United to second place in the Premier League and oversaw a period of relative harmony within the squad. While silverware ultimately proved elusive, many inside the club credit him with restoring a sense of unity after a turbulent era.
However, Solskjaer is not the only option under consideration. Michael Carrick, currently managing in the Championship, is viewed some executives as a candidate capable of stepping in temporarily. Carrick’s understanding of United’s internal environment, combined with his growing coaching experience, makes him an attractive low risk option should the club decide against looking externally.
Another name in the frame is Darren Fletcher, who holds a senior football role at Old Trafford. Fletcher’s involvement would represent a move toward continuity, relying on existing structures rather than introducing a new figure from outside. While he lacks extensive first team managerial experience, supporters of the idea argue that his influence behind the scenes and close ties with the squad could help steady the situation in the short term.
Club insiders stress that no final decision has been made and that talks with Solskjaer are exploratory rather than definitive. The priority, they say, is to ensure any interim appointment aligns with longer term plans and avoids repeating cycles of short lived fixes. The leadership group is also conscious of the pressure created the club’s high profile, knowing that any move will be heavily scrutinised fans and media alike.
For Solskjaer, a return would come with both opportunity and risk. An interim role would allow him to contribute without the burden of long term expectations, but it would also reopen debates about his previous tenure. Those close to the Norwegian say he remains deeply attached to the club and would be motivated the chance to help during a difficult period rather than personal ambition.
As Manchester United prepare for a crucial phase of the season, the outcome of Tuesday’s discussions could shape the club’s immediate direction. Whether the solution lies in a familiar face or an internal appointment, the overriding goal remains the same: restoring confidence, structure and stability at one of world football’s most demanding institutions.
