20 February 2024 , 08:55
980
0
Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is among the names linked with the Bayern Munich job, and the former Norway striker has already indicated he'd be open to a new challenge outside English football.
Solskjaer has been biding his time since leaving Old Trafford three months into the 2021-22 season. He was sacked with the club sliding towards mid-table, with Erik ten Hag taking over as his permanent successor the following summer after a few months of Ralf Rangnick as caretaker boss.
While he has admitted to turning down certain offers, an approach from Bayern might be harder to say no to. Solskjaer is reportedly a candidate to take interim charge at the Allianz Arena, with pressure growing on current boss Thomas Tuchel after the weekend defeat at Bochum.
Bayern sit eight points adrift of Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen, with time running out to haul in their rivals. There's no certainty of a change just yet, but Solskjaer's previous comments don't suggest he'd rule out a move outright.
"Yes [I want to manage again], and I’ve had offers," Solskjaer told The Athletic in September. "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.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
"I love England and the Premier League. 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 Manchester United job was his second in the Premier League following a short-lived spell with Cardiff City in 2014. He suffered relegation with the Bluebirds, but rebuilt his reputation back at former club Molde before taking over at Old Trafford, and doesn't want to repeat the Cardiff mistake with his next club.
Can you see Ole Gunnar Solskjaer succeeding at Bayern? Have your say in the comments section
Pressure is growing on Thomas Tuchel at Bayern (Getty Images)"The DNA and identity of the club are important, a club where I can be the best me," he continued. "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."
Bayern still sit second in the table despite Sunday's reverse, but are at risk of failing to win the Bundesliga title for the first time since 2012. They also suffered an early exit from the DFB-Pokal at the hands of lower-league Sandhausen, while their Champions League hopes hang in the balance after a first-leg defeat against Lazio.
and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our