GOAL looks at some of the contenders to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as Manchester United manager
Manchester United announced on Sunday that they had parted ways with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and that Michael Carrick would be taking charge temporarily.
The club confirmed the former midfielder will lead the team in their next games until someone is hired to manage the team on an interim basis until the end of the season.
It is then expected that a permanent replacement for Solskjaer will be hired. Here GOAL looks at some of the names who have been linked and whether or not they are likely to be making the move.
GettyMauricio Pochettino
A name that will keep being linked due to United’s long-standing interest. United are admirers of the former Spurs boss and he would be their first choice for taking the position on a permanent basis next summer. They considered appointing him the summer after Jose Mourinho was sacked but Solskjaer ended up getting the job on a permanent basis. When Solskjaer was under pressure last season and Pochettino was out of a job there was a suggestion he had been approached but he went to PSG and Solskjaer stayed put. His current position makes a move now more difficult but a move in the summer could suit all parties and it’s understood he’s interested.
AdvertisementGettyMichael Carrick
For now Carrick is the one who will be taking charge of the team. He was promoted to the first-team coaching staff under Jose Mourinho but has never managed a first team and his lack of experience makes him a temporary replacement rather than an option for the long term. Carrick and Kieran McKenna were the two who would lead sessions under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer so how much of United’s game will change now the Norwegian has gone will remain to be seen.
GettyZinedine Zidane
Probably the most glamorous name on the list of potential replacements and he’s currently out of work which puts him in the available category unlike a number of the others. Sources were keen to dismiss a move for the Frenchman a couple of weeks ago but it’s someone who could be revisited. However, it’s believed the former Real Madrid coach has reservations about a move and may not consider it even if it was offered.
GettyErik Ten Hag
Current manager of Ajax which means any potential move becomes more difficult. He’s won two Eredivisie titles with Ajax and got them to the semi-final of the Champions League. He was recently asked about leaving Ajax for a different challenge abroad and he said he was happy where he is. He’s got admirers at Old Trafford and his resolve may be tested if United make a formal approach.