Ole Gunnar Solskjaer open to Man United return to replace Ruben Amorim

Solskjaer’s previous spell at United did not end well, as he was sacked following a 4-1 defeat to Watford during the 2021/22 season. He first joined the club in December 2018 to replace Jose Mourinho and was appointed permanent manager at the start of the 2019 season.

During his three seasons in charge, Solskjaer achieved several notable results. United finished second in the Premier League in the 2020/21 season and reached the Europa League final in the same campaign. However, poor performances at the start of the 2021/22 season led to his dismissal.

Despite that ending, Solskjaer has maintained a good relationship with the club. Following Amorim’s sacking, he is now viewed as one of the strongest options to step in. According to Fabrizio Romano, Solskjaer “would be more than open” to returning to Old Trafford as manager.

A return to United would come at a difficult time. The club are going through one of their toughest periods, having finished 15th in the Premier League last season and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham. This season has also been marked by issues with tactics, injuries and internal tension.

However, these challenges may not deter Solskjaer. Speaking in November 2025, the Norwegian reflected on the difficulties of his previous spell: “It’s not about getting the credit, but it was the worst time to be the manager of Manchester United. You had Jurgen Klopp with Liverpool and Pep Guardiola with Manchester City.

“The best managers and probably the two best teams in the world at the time. But we finished second and third. With the staff, we had something going, but we couldn’t take the next step.” Solskjaer also described the pressure of managing United as a “privilege”.

Even if Solskjaer is willing to return, the final decision rests with the club. United are also considering other options, including Michael Carrick for a short-term role and longer-term candidates such as Xavi, Enzo Maresca and Oliver Glasner.

For now, Darren Fletcher will take charge of the Premier League match against Burnley on 8 January. United will then face Brighton in the third round of the FA Cup, followed by a clash with Manchester City on 17 January.