Former Liverpool and England star Steve McManaman has expressed serious doubts over Manchester United's potential move to reappoint Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, branding the idea "very strange" and suggesting a different club legend would be a superior choice.
Amorim's Exit Sparks Managerial Search
The managerial saga at Old Trafford was reignited after the club confirmed the departure of Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach was relieved of his duties following United's 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road on January 11, 2026.
Amorim had seemingly foreshadowed his exit, using his post-match comments to take a pointed dig at the United hierarchy. He publicly demanded to be recognised as a 'manager' and 'not just a coach', and hinted he was prepared to leave when his contract expired at the end of the 2026/27 season.
With Darren Fletcher currently in caretaker charge, the club's search for a solution has seen a host of names linked, from Premier League figures like Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner to former England manager Gareth Southgate. However, recent discussions have focused on internal, familiar faces.
McManaman's Stark Warning on Solskjaer Return
Speaking on TNT Sports, McManaman was unequivocal in his criticism of the prospect of Solskjaer's return. The Norwegian previously managed United from December 2018 to November 2021, leading them to a Europa League final before being dismissed.
"I'd be very surprised if Ole came in with Michael. I think that's a definite no-no," McManaman stated. "But I think we'd all be surprised if Ole came back in, wouldn't we? After getting rid of him and paying him off, to then bring him back. It would be a very strange one."
He warned that such a move would invite further criticism and scrutiny, arguing the club needs a fresh start. "They need to clean the slate and start again," he insisted.
Carrick Tipped as the 'Better Appointment'
McManaman instead threw his support behind Michael Carrick, who served as Solskjaer's assistant and had a brief stint as caretaker manager himself. Carrick's most recent role was in charge of Middlesbrough.
"If that's Michael coming in, I think that would be a better appointment," McManaman concluded, advocating for a clear break from the past.
This view, however, is not universal at Old Trafford. United legend Peter Schmeichel presented a contrasting vision on BBC Radio 5 Live, passionately advocating for a united front of club icons.
"It pleases me that the three of them [Fletcher, Solskjaer and Carrick] are mentioned," Schmeichel said. "I mean, it's a dream, for me, it's a dream team if they could get all three to see out the rest of the season."
The Danish goalkeeper emphasised the need for 'Manchester United people' to steer the club, praising Fletcher's understanding of the club's DNA and criticising the recent cycle of managers imposing external systems that have failed.
As the debate rages, the United board faces a critical decision that will define the immediate future of the club, with the choice between a nostalgic reunion and a cleaner break now laid bare by its own former stars.
