Manchester United have opened formal discussions with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer regarding a sensational return to the Old Trafford dugout, with bookmakers slashing odds on the Norwegian becoming the club's interim manager by the weekend.
Following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim on Monday after just 14 months in charge, the United hierarchy—led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Jason Wilcox—have moved quickly to identify a candidate capable of stabilising the ship. While Darren Fletcher has taken temporary charge for the midweek clash against Burnley, reports indicate that Solskjaer is the chosen man to lead the team until the end of the season.
The 52-year-old, who was sacked by the club in November 2021, has reportedly been spotted in Cheshire this week. His return would mark one of the most unexpected comebacks in Premier League history, yet sources suggest INEOS view his "United DNA" and man-management skills as the perfect antidote to the toxic atmosphere that engulfed the final weeks of Amorim’s tenure.
The Odds Shift: OGS Now Heavy Favourite
The betting markets have reacted violently to the news of negotiations. Having started the week as an outsider, Solskjaer is now priced at 1/3 with several major bookmakers, suggesting a deal is imminent.
However, he is not the only club legend in the frame. See the full next Man Utd manager odds here to track the movement in real-time.
Why Solskjaer? Why Now?
The logic from the boardroom appears to be pragmatic. United are currently languishing in 6th place, and the experiment with Amorim’s rigid 3-4-3 system has alienated key members of the squad. Solskjaer is available immediately, having left Besiktas earlier this season, and remains a popular figure among the players and match-going fans.
Crucially, he would likely accept a short-term contract, allowing the club to pursue their primary long-term target—Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner—in the summer without paying significant compensation mid-season. Glasner, who led Palace to FA Cup glory in 2025, has refused to commit his future to the Eagles beyond this summer.
The Alternatives: Carrick and Ruud
If talks with Solskjaer collapse, United have contingency plans involving two other former midfielders. Michael Carrick remains highly rated by the Old Trafford hierarchy. However, extracting him from Middlesbrough is complicated; he signed a contract extension until 2027 recently and is pushing for promotion.
Ruud van Nistelrooy is another viable option. The Dutchman impressed during his brief four-game interim spell after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, remaining unbeaten. He has reportedly indicated a willingness to return, but currently trails Solskjaer in the running.
For more updates on the squad situation, check the Manchester United club hub.
What Happens Next?
Darren Fletcher will lead the team against Burnley, but INEOS are pushing to have the new interim boss in place before the weekend. If Solskjaer agrees terms within the next 48 hours, he could be in the dugout for the FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton.