Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has publicly declared his interest in returning to football management, specifically expressing his preference for a role in England following his dismissal from Turkish club Besiktas earlier this season.
Rangers Links Firmly Denied
The Norwegian coach directly addressed recent speculation linking him with the vacant managerial position at Scottish Premiership side Rangers. Solskjaer confirmed he did not speak with Rangers officials personally, though he acknowledged communication may have occurred through his agent, who he described as his "best mate."
This clarification comes after Rangers reportedly considered the former United striker as a potential replacement for Russell Martin, who was dismissed after just four months in charge. The position has since been filled by Danny Rohl.
Championship Ambitions Revealed
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Solskjaer made his managerial preferences clear. "I'm open, it's not like I'm desperate to be back but England, I love living here," the 52-year-old stated, highlighting his attachment to the country where he spent much of his playing career.
When questioned about potentially managing in the Championship, Solskjaer revealed his family's input, noting: "My kids ask me mid-Championship and up." He further explained his managerial philosophy, drawing parallels with his gaming habits: "I'm a football man. When I played Football Manager and Championship Manager, I like to defy the odds."
Reflecting on Turbulent Besiktas Tenure
Solskjaer's most recent managerial role ended abruptly when Besiktas dismissed him following their shock exit from UEFA Conference League qualifying against Swiss side Lausanne. Despite this disappointing conclusion, he guided the Turkish club to fourth place in the Super Lig last season.
Reflecting on his time in Istanbul, Solskjaer described it as a "rollercoaster but really enjoyable." He contrasted his calm managerial style with the passionate Turkish football culture: "I'm more of a calm person, relaxed, they're very high when they win, very low when they lose while I'm never too high, never too low."
The Norwegian admitted he had hoped to implement his stability-focused approach at the club but ultimately found the emotional extremes challenging. "I was hoping to gradually take them over to my thinking but it was so passionate," he explained, noting the atmosphere was "unbelievable" during victories over rivals Besiktas and Galatasaray.
Solskjaer's declaration coincides with managerial changes in the Championship, including Rob Edwards' departure for struggling Premier League side Wolves, potentially opening up opportunities that match his stated preferences for a return to English football.
