Solskjaer set for first role since Man Utd sacking after holding positive talks

12 January 2024 , 22:50

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Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Image: Getty Images)

Former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be set for a return to management more than two years after he was sacked by the Red Devils.

Solskjaer spent 11 seasons at Old Trafford as a player, memorably scoring the winning goal as United won the 1999 Champions League final, before returning to the club in 2018 as manager after Jose Mourinho's departure.

Having initially been appointed as caretaker manager, Solskjaer impressed and earned himself the job on a full-time basis. He notably guided United to a second-placed finish in the Premier League and the Europa League final in the 2020/21 season, but was ultimately axed the following season after a poor run of form.

Solskjaer has been out of a job since his departure from United, but things could be about to change. Fotbollskanalen are reporting that Solskjaer has held talks with the Swedish Football Association about becoming their new manager.

Former boss Janne Andersson resigned in November after Sweden failed to qualify for Euro 2024 and the report states that Solskjaer held talks over replacing him in December. The 50-year-old has also been linked with Besiktas in recent weeks.

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In an interview with the Athletic last September, Solskjaer outlined his desire to get back into coaching but admitted he was waiting for the right opportunity. He said: "I've had offers. Most recently, two from Saudi Arabia.

"My best mate, who is also my agent, sifts through them. If you've managed Man United, you put your own criteria about what you want to work with. I love England and the Premier League.

Solskjaer is said to have talks about becoming Sweden's new manager (AFP via Getty Images)

"Even the Championship feels stronger than ever, but I don't feel bound to England. Maybe a different challenge where I need to experience a new culture and learn a new language.

"The DNA and identity of the club are important, a club where I can be the best me. It has to be a match. Maybe I made the wrong decision to go to Cardiff, for example, where there was a clash of identities and styles.

"What I miss most is working with good people, coming in every day, discussing football and putting a plan together for the next game. It's not just about formations, but creating a culture where the staff enjoy their job and building a team together."

Matthew Cooper