Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is eyeing a return to Old Trafford in 2022 despite being abruptly released by Manchester United. Following the recent sacking of manager Ruben Amorim, Darren Fletcher has been appointed as interim manager as the club’s senior management considers the possibility of a permanent replacement.
However, there is talk of the Norwegian taking over temporarily until the end of the season, and Solskjaer is said to be keen on that possibility. While some may see the possibility of the ‘baby-faced assassin’ returning to the dugout as retrograde, there is no denying the love he has for the club and the mutual admiration he has from the fans.
Solskjaer’s six-month spell at Old Trafford could give him some stability before a new manager takes over in the summer. But with United in contention to qualify for the Champions League and the FA Cup restarting this weekend, he could have the chance to make a strong impression during his second spell.
Despite his departure, Solskjaer remains a beloved figure in the United dressing room and his influence is still evident. If the 52-year-old returns to the managerial role, it could have a huge impact, especially if he decides to focus on two key areas.
Here we take a look at what we would do in Solskjaer’s position if he were to take over as United manager.
youth development
Having spent 11 years under the tutelage of Sir Alex Ferguson, it is no surprise that Solskjaer is a keen advocate of developing young talent, which is fundamental to United’s ethos as a football club.
United’s impressive record of featuring academy graduates in every first-team matchday squad since October 30, 1937 continues to amaze supporters. This incredible streak took him past 4,000 consecutive games, a tradition maintained during Solskjær’s tenure as manager.
Solskjaer has introduced 16 young talents to the first team, including Amad and Anthony Elanga. Similarly, Amorim has given debuts to Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey this season, reinforcing a clear pathway from youth to the first team. This is characteristic of both Solskjaer’s approach and United’s ethos.
Securing Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes is arguably United’s most successful player since Ferguson left in 2013. Since joining the club in 2020, he has played in 309 games, scoring 103 goals and providing 94 assists, making a major contribution.
Even though these impressive statistics have not translated into great success, it is difficult for United fans to imagine what the club would be like without their Portuguese captain. This almost became a reality last summer when Saudi Professional League side Al Hilal reportedly offered a £100m bid for the 31-year-old, which was rejected.
In a recent interview, Fernandes admitted he was considering leaving United and was upset by reports the club were prepared to let him go.
With Amorim’s departure, Fernandes will now serve under three permanent managers and Solskjaer, who brought Fernandes to Old Trafford, may face the challenge of convincing his captain not to pursue a lucrative move to the Middle East.
Fernandes has previously said that Solskjaer’s trust was a key factor in his decision to sign for the club, so he may be happy to have his former manager back. If Fernandes is considering a move this summer, there could be significant challenges ahead for the former striker.
