Manchester United are considering a sensational interim return for former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, following the abrupt dismissal of head coach Ruben Amorim. The development comes after Solskjaer's own managerial ambitions with the Norwegian national team were recently blocked.
Amorim's Departure Sparks Managerial Search
The club confirmed Ruben Amorim's exit on Monday morning, just over a year after his appointment in November 2024. In an official statement, United thanked the Portuguese coach, who led the team to the UEFA Europa League final in May 2025, but cited the team's current sixth-place position in the Premier League as the reason for the change.
Technical director Darren Fletcher will take temporary charge for the midweek fixture against Burnley. However, the club's hierarchy is actively weighing up appointing a more experienced interim manager to guide the team for the remainder of the campaign.
Solskjaer Emerges as a Leading Contender
According to reports, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a serious candidate being discussed for that short-term role. The 52-year-old Norwegian is available after leaving Turkish side Besiktas and, crucially, has just seen the door close on his dream of managing his homeland after Ståle Solbakken extended his contract with Norway until 2028.
Solskjaer's previous three-year stint at Old Trafford between 2018 and 2021 saw the club achieve league finishes of sixth, third, and second. Former teammate Ronny Johnsen told the press it was "logical" his name was in the frame, stating: "He has experience with the club and knows the culture."
Permanent Succession and Other Candidates
While an interim solution is sought, Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner is the frontrunner for the permanent job. The Austrian's contract at Selhurst Park runs until this summer, leaving United to decide whether to wait or pay compensation for an immediate appointment.
The managerial merry-go-round has also thrown up other potential names:
- Enzo Maresca: The Italian, who left Chelsea last week, is rumoured to be considering a quick return.
- Michael Carrick: Another former United player and coach, also in the frame for an interim role.
- Other speculated candidates include Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, and high-profile names like Zinedine Zidane, Xavi, and Gareth Southgate.
Whether Solskjaer would be willing to step back into the Old Trafford hot seat, even temporarily, remains the decisive question as United scramble to salvage their season.
