Man United squad pick side in Solskjaer vs Carrick interim manager race - report

Interim coach Darren Fletcher is set to vacate his position this week, with Manchester United expected to announce a new interim manager in the coming days.

Club legend Michael Carrick is reportedly the favourite, although Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still in the running, after holding face-to-face talks with the United hierarchy.

ESPN have added weight to reports that Carrick is the frontrunner, claiming the former Middlesbrough boss has significant backing from members of the current playing squad.

The former midfielder was in charge of United for three games following Solskjaer’s dismissal in 2021 and is said to have made an impression on senior players during that period.

Carrick was unbeaten as United’s interim coach, masterminding victories against Arsenal and Villarreal in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, respectively, while securing a draw against Chelsea.

He went on to take on the permanent managerial position at Boro, where he was in charge of 163 matches, recording 63 wins, 24 draws and 49 defeats before his dismissal.

Solskjaer’s camp remains confident of being appointed, but Carrick’s backing within the dressing room may give him an edge.

Either Carrick or Solskjaer is expected to be in the dugout when United take on city rivals Manchester City in Saturday’s early kick-off at the Old Trafford.

United’s 2-1 defeary to Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup third round on Sunday confirmed a second trophyless season.

However, the new interim manager could still salvage the season with Champions League qualification. United currently sit seventh, just three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

The Red Devils must string together positive results to avoid missing out on qualifying for Europe’s elite competition for the second consecutive season.

Stats from transfermarkt.com

Article written by Henry Thornton .