Ole Gunnar Solskjaer linked with Man Utd return as dream job is blocked

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has emerged as a potential candidate for the Manchester United job following the collapse of his aspirations to manage Norway. Several figures have been touted for the vacant hot seat at Old Trafford following Ruben Amorim's sacking on Monday morning.

An official club announcement regarding the Portuguese manager's exit read: " Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United . Ruben was appointed in November 2024 and led the team to a UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May.

"With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League , the club's leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change. This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish. The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future."

The club has also announced that Darren Fletcher will oversee United's fixture against Burnley on Wednesday. Although the Scot possesses coaching credentials from his time under Erik ten Hag and previously occupied the role of technical director, it marks his maiden voyage as head coach at elite level.

Consequently, the Red Devils are now weighing up bringing in a more seasoned interim manager to see out the campaign, with Michael Carrick and Solskjaer amongst those being discussed . Although Solskjaer was dismissed by the United hierarchy just three years ago, a comeback could be possible given the former striker's proven track record at the club, reports the Manchester Evening News .

During Solskjaer's reign, United secured sixth, third and second-place league positions. With the 52-year-old recently parting ways with Besiktas, he would be available to return to Old Trafford in a temporary capacity.

Discussing a possible appointment, former teammate, Ronny Johnsen , said: "It is logical that his name comes up in the discussion. He has experience with the club and knows the culture."

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Meanwhile, ex- Tottenham goalkeeper, Erik Thorstvedt , added: "It would be unusual for a club like Manchester United, which is used to getting what they point to. I would be very surprised if Ole Gunnar returns. Although I know that many have reminisced about how good they were under him."

This development follows Solskjaer's recent disappointment in missing out on managing his homeland Norway, after Ståle Solbakken signed a contract extension with the national side until 2028. Whether he would consider taking on a caretaker position with his former Premier League employers, though, is yet to be determined.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is tipped to be the next permanent gaffer at Old Trafford. The Austrian has had a successful stint at Selhurst Park and his name has been associated with the United job for a while now.

However, with his contract running until this summer, it's unclear whether United are planning to wait until then to avoid paying compensation to Palace and maintain good relations. In other news, ex- Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is rumoured to be considering a quick return to management with the Red Devils.

The Italian left Chelsea last week by mutual agreement, after leading the club to a Europa Conference League title and the Club World Cup last summer. In response, Chelsea have named Liam Rosenior as their new first-team manager.

Other potential candidates include Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola , La Liga greats Zinedine Zidane and Xavi , and former England manager Gareth Southgate .

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