Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's reaction to missing out on Man Utd job speaks volumes

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is backing Michael Carrick to be a success after his former coach was chosen to become Manchester United 's new manager until the end of the season ahead of him.

Solskjaer and Carrick quickly emerged as contenders to step in on a temporary basis after Ruben Amorim departed Old Trafford earlier this month. And it was the Norwegian, who managed United from 2018 to 2021 after initially impressing in an interim capacity, who was deemed by many to be the favourite for the head coach gig.

While Solskjaer's previous experience in the hotseat had seemingly given him the edge, it became clear over the weekend that Carrick, after impressing in talks with the United hierarchy, was, in fact, more likely to land the role.

The 44-year-old was subsequently formally appointed on Tuesday evening after further talks - and despite missing out on a second crack at the Manchester United job, there are seemingly no hard feelings on Solskjaer's part.

BBC Sport claim that the former Red Devils striker 'wants' Carrick to make a success of the job, which is his until at least the summer. The report adds that Solskjaer views United's success as 'the most important thing' and feels Carrick will do an 'excellent job' at the helm.

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While it is unclear what Solskjaer, who had not been planning an imminent return to management before being approached by United, will do next, the opportunity to oversee the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign is a big opportunity for Carrick, who was sacked by Middlesbrough back in June.

The former United and England midfielder had been in charge of the Championship club for two-and-a-half years, overseeing 136 games. However, Carrick was axed after failing to guide Boro to a top-six finish.

Fittingly, Solskjaer actually tipped Carrick - who was part of his Old Trafford coaching team - to be a future Manchester United manager back in 2023. “Michael is a man of value and principles, a big family man, but his knowledge is also second to none,” Solskjaer told The Athletic .

“He’s had Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho as managers, and he’s played with the best players in the world . He’s a winner but he’s still in control of his emotions.

“I cannot see him not being the Manchester United manager.”

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