Is Solskjaer coming back to Manchester United?

January 6, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s latest managerial upheaval has reopened familiar questions at Old Trafford, including whether a former manager could once again provide short-term stability during a turbulent period.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who previously oversaw the club during both an interim and permanent spell, is understood to be open to returning in a caretaker capacity as United assess their next move.

Amorim exit sets off search

The renewed discussion follows the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, who was informed on Monday morning that the club’s leadership had decided to make a change. The decision, described internally as reluctant, came ahead of Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Leeds.

Reports indicate tensions had grown behind the scenes, particularly after a meeting between Amorim and football director Jason Wilcox over the manager’s insistence on using a 3-4-3 system.

United confirmed that Darren Fletcher will oversee the team for the upcoming league match against Burnley, but the club has stressed that the former midfielder’s role is strictly temporary.

Interim focus, long-term planning

With United intending to appoint a permanent manager in the summer, senior figures are now considering a caretaker appointment to guide the team through the remainder of the 2025–26 season. Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner is widely viewed as a leading candidate for the long-term role.

In the short term, several experienced names have been discussed, including Solskjaer, who managed the club for three years before his dismissal in November 2021.

Manchester World reported that the Norwegian would be receptive to discussions about a temporary return, noting that while his inclusion on any formal shortlist is unclear, he would not rule out helping the club again. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano supported that account, saying Solskjaer “would be more than open” to stepping in as caretaker.

A familiar option

Solskjaer’s previous interim spell remains a reference point inside the club. He won 14 of his first 19 matches after taking over in December 2018, form that ultimately earned him the job on a permanent basis. Across his tenure, he managed 168 matches, recording a win percentage of 54%.

He has also spoken publicly about his attachment to United. In 2024, while addressing an audience at the Oslo Business Forum, Solskjaer addressed speculation about a possible return. Quoted by Norwegian outlet VG, he said: “If your family asks you, you say yes every day of the week. It feels wrong to talk about jobs other people have. But I say yes.”

Identity debate continues

Amorim’s departure has reignited wider debate about direction at Old Trafford. Former defender Gary Neville argued the club must prioritise a clear footballing identity when making its next appointment.

“Manchester United must take risks and play aggressive, attacking football,” Neville said, adding that the club should not continually adapt its style to fit individual managers.

Read also: Chelsea shock move confirmed

Whether United turn to a familiar figure or pursue a fresh interim solution, the coming weeks are likely to shape not just the rest of the season, but the club’s longer-term reset.

Sources: Manchester World, Fabrizio Romano, VG