Manchester United legend eyes sensational return to managerial position at Old Trafford

Last Updated on 7 January 2026

Old Trafford is once again staring into familiar territory. After another abrupt managerial exit, Manchester United are weighing short-term solutions while plotting a permanent reset in the summer.

Ruben Amorim’s dismissal has led to Darren Fletcher taking charge as interim manager. But talks are continuing behind the scenes as the United hierarchy seeks other options for the caretaker manager until the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

And, one option being seriously considered would feel like a step back into the glorious recent past of Manchester United…

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick leading the race for caretaker manager at Manchester United

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has emerged as a leading contender to return to Manchester United in a caretaker capacity until the end of the season.

BBC Sport report that Solskjaer is set for face-to-face talks with United’s hierarchy, alongside former teammate Michael Carrick. The club is searching for stability following the sacking of Ruben Amorim on Monday.

A shared coaching setup has not been ruled out. Carrick was a key part of Solskjaer’s staff during his initial spell in charge after Jose Mourinho’s dismissal in 2018. It was a period that eventually evolved into a three-year tenure as permanent manager.

For now, Darren Fletcher will remain in interim charge. His stay begins with Wednesday night’s Premier League trip to Burnley. United plan to appoint a permanent manager in the summer, with this role very much viewed as a stopgap rather than a long-term solution.

Solskjaer, who was most recently sacked by Besiktas in August, while Carrick has been out of a job since he got sacked by Middlesborough in June 2025.

What would Ole Gunnar Solskjaer bring to Manchester United if he makes a comeback?

The Norwegian was sacked by United in November 2021 after winning only one game in seven Premier League matches.

However, it was not all doom and gloom during Solskjaer’s time in charge at Old Trafford. He turned United into an exciting side to watch with plenty of goals. While the goals dried up toward the end, fact is Solskjaer has the tools to get the most out of United’s current options.

That is one of the reasons behind the United hierarchy considering Solskjaer for the interim position. In fact, it’s likely that the 52-year-old also works in tandem with Carrick to provide some stability.

A fresh set of ideas and a likely return to a back four could see United become serious challengers for a Champions League spot.