EPL: Solskjaer set for face-to-face talks with Man Utd chiefs
Manchester United’s search for a caretaker manager until the end of the season is nearing a decision, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scheduled for face-to-face talks with club executives on Saturday about a potential return.
Former midfielder and ex-Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick, the other leading candidate, is understood to have already held discussions with United’s hierarchy.
The club is keen to finalise an appointment before next weekend’s Manchester derby.
Caretaker decision nears as United weigh options
Club sources indicate that both Solskjaer and Carrick are viewed as standalone managerial options, rather than part of a joint coaching structure, despite having previously worked together after Jose Mourinho’s departure in 2018.
Solskjaer was appointed under similar circumstances following Mourinho’s exit and earned the job permanently in March 2019 after an impressive run.
He later guided United to a Europa League final but was dismissed in November 2021 after a downturn in results. His most recent role was with Besiktas, where he was sacked in August after failing to qualify for European competitions.
Fletcher focused on present as future remains unclear
In the interim, Darren Fletcher remains in charge. Speaking on Friday, Fletcher confirmed that his attention is firmly on the FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton, insisting there have been no discussions about his longer-term role.
Fletcher was handed temporary responsibility following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal and has not held talks with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada or sporting director Jason Wilcox regarding his future beyond the Brighton match.
“There have been no thoughts or conversations over my future,” Fletcher said, adding that he has been given full authority to prepare and lead the team for the two fixtures.
Senior figures at Old Trafford are reportedly impressed by how Fletcher has handled the role and the pressure surrounding it this week.
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