Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed he urged Manchester United to appoint Michael Carrick as their next manager, even though he was himself a candidate for the role. The former United boss told TV2 that he spoke with Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox about the position and used the conversation to praise his former assistant.
Solskjaer's Stance on Carrick
Solskjaer, who managed United between 2018 and 2021, was among those considered to replace Ruben Amorim in January. Both he and Carrick were leading candidates, with Carrick ultimately getting the nod. Solskjaer said he held nothing but admiration for Carrick and even urged the club to pick him.
"When I spoke to United, I also boasted about Michael - 'If you choose him, you will get a good man,' I said," Solskjaer told TV2. "I think he did the same to me. Michael has what it takes to take that club forward. I think he's the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what's needed."
No Negotiations, Just Advice
The 53-year-old stressed he made no demands concerning salary or contract length. "None of us were desperate to get the job. We'd probably be up for the job if they asked. At the time, there was talk of being an interim coach for the rest of the season," he explained.
"I gave my input on what is needed for the club to move forward. It was one small chat we had. There were no negotiations. Going back to what has been is not always as good. Yes, I had lined up, but I didn't think it would last longer than the summer. It was probably time for someone else to try."
Unfinished Business at Old Trafford
Solskjaer admitted he still feels he has unfinished business at United and would embrace a return should the chance arise. "I also feel like I have something unresolved. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again," he said.
Despite a disastrous start to the season, Solskjaer maintained Carrick is the right choice. "Some of the same problems are still there. They're called challenges, not problems. Nothing is a problem. Those who watch the team see it. Those who work behind the scenes know what the challenges are there," he added.
Carrick avoided being sacked this week following a dismal sequence of results, with the club prepared to grant him until the November international break to turn their fortunes around. United are without a win in their previous nine fixtures in all competitions and are being strongly linked with Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann.
