Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that he would welcome another opportunity to manage Manchester United, admitting he still has unfinished business with the Premier League club.
The former United manager acknowledged that returning to Old Trafford would be an attractive prospect, despite expressing his support for current head coach Michael Carrick, whose position is coming under increasing scrutiny.
Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster TV2, Solskjaer said he still felt there was something left unresolved from his previous spell in charge.
“Going back to what has been is not always as good,” he said.
“Yes, I had lined up [as Manchester United’s interim manager last season], but I didn’t think it would last longer than the summer. It was probably time for someone else to try.
“I also feel like I have something unresolved. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again.”
Carrick Faces Mounting Pressure After Chelsea Defeat
Solskjaer’s comments come at a difficult time for Carrick, whose position has attracted growing attention following Manchester United’s disappointing performances.
United’s latest setback came on Saturday, when they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea, leaving them 17th in the Premier League table.
The Red Devils are above 18th-placed Crystal Palace only on goal difference and sit just two points ahead of bottom-placed Sunderland.
The club’s poor league position has increased the pressure on Carrick as he attempts to reverse their disappointing campaign.
Solskjaer Insists He Is Not Seeking Carrick’s Job
Despite revealing his willingness to return to the managerial position, Solskjaer was keen to clarify that he is not campaigning for Carrick to be replaced.
The Norwegian explained that he would only consider another temporary spell at Old Trafford under different circumstances, particularly if Carrick had completed a lengthy successful period in charge.
“If Michael does well for 10 years and decides to quit, and they ask me if I can take them for two months, of course I wouldn’t say no,” Solskjaer said.
“I’ve been at that club for 18-19 years, so it’s part of the family. But it’s not something I’m thinking about.”
Former United Manager Backs Carrick to Succeed
Solskjaer also defended Carrick’s ability to lead Manchester United, insisting his former colleague possesses the qualities required to improve the club’s fortunes.
Carrick previously worked as part of Solskjaer’s coaching staff before the Norwegian was dismissed in November 2021.
Both men were also interviewed as potential interim replacements when Ruben Amorim was dismissed in January, but United ultimately appointed Carrick.
Solskjaer believes his former colleague’s familiarity with the club makes him suitable for the position.
“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,” he added.
Carrick Prepares for Crucial Fixtures at Old Trafford
Carrick will have an opportunity to respond to the mounting pressure when Manchester United return to action on Tuesday for their Champions League meeting with Roma.
The Red Devils will then host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday, with both matches scheduled to take place at Old Trafford before the international break.
