Manchester United is closing in on appointing a caretaker manager to lead the team until the end of the season, with talks scheduled for Saturday involving Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Solskjaer and Carrick in the Running
Former United midfielder and ex-Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick, the other leading candidate, has already met with club officials. United are aiming to have a decision in place before next weekend’s high-profile Manchester derby. Sources at the club stress that both Solskjaer and Carrick are viewed as standalone managers rather than a joint team, even though they previously worked together following Jose Mourinho’s departure in 2018.
Solskjaer, who initially took charge in similar caretaker circumstances in 2018, was made permanent in March 2019 after a strong run of results. He led United to the Europa League final but was dismissed in November 2021 following a poor spell. Most recently, Solskjaer managed Besiktas in Turkey but was sacked in August after failing to secure Europa and Conference League qualifications.
Darren Fletcher Focuses on FA Cup
In the meantime, Darren Fletcher continues as interim manager, focusing solely on United’s FA Cup third-round tie with Brighton. Fletcher, who took temporary charge after Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, confirmed he has not discussed his future with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, or director of football Jason Wilcox.
“There have been no thoughts or conversations over my future,” Fletcher said. “I’ve been given full responsibility to take control of these two games, to make my own decisions, to lead the team, guide the team and prepare the team. That’s what I’ve been doing.”
Shining a Spotlight on the Academy
Fletcher also addressed Amorim’s previous criticisms of United’s academy, defending the young talent and giving opportunities to players like 18-year-old Shea Lacey and Kobbie Mainoo. Lacey came close to scoring with a stunning 20-yard effort that hit the crossbar on only his second senior appearance.
“Historically, this club is built around the academy,” Fletcher said. “We’ve got amazing talent — hardworking, humble, honest, coachable players. We have to let them learn, educate them, and guide them. With good guidance, they can become Manchester United players.”
United officials are reportedly impressed with Fletcher’s handling of both on-field responsibilities and external pressures during his brief tenure. The caretaker appointment is expected to be confirmed before the Manchester derby on January 17, though sources caution that a final decision may take longer.
