Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emerges as shock candidate to replace Erik ten Hag at Man Utd
Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Man United boss
Reports suggest that Manchester United have not ruled out the possibility of re-approaching Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after the club’s decision to sack Erik ten Hag.
The team has managed to win just three of their first nine top-flight matches and currently sits at 21st in the newly formatted Europa League, having drawn all three of their opening fixtures.
However, the Manchester Evening News reports that club officials are concerned about the potential difficulties in securing a new coach, particularly given that Ten Hag’s departure could cost United around £17million in compensation.
This financial factor might lead the club to consider Solskjaer, who has been out of management since his own sacking by the Red Devils in November 2021, as a potential candidate for a comeback.
The extent to which the Norwegian, a club legend, is seen as a viable long-term head coach or merely a candidate for a backroom position remains unclear.
Solskjaer enjoyed a successful playing career at United, spending nine seasons at the club, winning six Premier League titles and scoring over 100 goals, thereby securing his place in Old Trafford folklore.
He took over as manager in 2018 after a successful interim stint following Jose Mourinho’s departure.
Despite leading United to the Europa League final in 2020, he was dismissed in November 2021 after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Watford.
Recently, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expressed his willingness to return to United.
When asked about the possibility of taking the managerial role by Norwegian outlet NRK in September, he stated: “If your family needs you, then of course they will help.
“I would say “yes” any day of the week.
“It feels wrong to sit and talk about jobs that other people have.
“But of course, yes.”
Manchester United released a statement confirming Ten Hag’s departure on Monday.
It read: “Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.
“Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.
“We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.
“Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.”
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