Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reaction to losing Man Utd job to Michael Carrick emerges | Football | Sport

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is throwing his support behind Michael Carrick, following the decision to appoint his former first-team coach as Manchester United’s interim manager for the rest of the season. Solskjaer and Carrick were both in the running to temporarily take over the reins at Old Trafford after Ruben Amorim’s departure earlier this month. Many had tipped Solskjaer, who previously managed United from 2018 to 2021 and initially made a strong impression as an interim manager, as the likely successor.

However, despite Solskjaer’s prior experience giving him an apparent advantage, it became evident over the weekend that Carrick was the frontrunner after impressing the United board during discussions. The 44-year-old was officially appointed on Tuesday evening following further talks. Despite missing out on a second stint at the helm of Manchester United, Solskjaer harbours no resentment.

According to BBC Sport, the former Red Devils striker ‘wants’ Carrick to succeed in the role, which he will hold until at least the summer. The report suggests that Solskjaer considers United’s success as ‘the most important thing’ and believes Carrick will do an ‘excellent job’ leading the team.

Whilst Solskjaer’s next move remains uncertain – having not anticipated an immediate return to management prior to United’s approach – the chance to guide the team through the rest of the 2025-26 season presents a significant opportunity for Carrick, who departed Middlesbrough in June.

The ex-United and England midfielder had spent two-and-a-half years at the helm of the Championship side, taking charge of 136 matches. However, his tenure ended following Boro’s failure to secure a play-off spot.

Remarkably, Solskjaer had previously backed Carrick – a member of his Old Trafford coaching staff – as a future Manchester United boss in 2023. “Michael is a man of value and principles, a big family man, but his knowledge is also second to none,” Solskjaer revealed to The Athletic.

“He’s had Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho as managers, and he’s played with the best players in the world. He’s a winner but he’s still in control of his emotions. I cannot see him not being the Manchester United manager.”