OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER claims Michael Carrick has the “devil” in him to turn it around at Manchester United.
Red Devils legend and former boss Solskjaer claims his mate has a ruthless side that fans do not see. Carrick is not expected to survive beyond the international break after overseeing United’s worst start to a league season in 40 years. Solskjaer said: “Michael has what it takes to take that club forward. You don’t see the devil in him. But he has it and so do I! We are so incredibly similar.
“He’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what’s needed.
“Maybe not many people thought I would become a football coach, at least not manager of Manchester United. There were probably many who thought the same about Michael Carrick.”
Solskjaer bossed United for three years following 11 seasons at Old Trafford in which he won ten major trophies. He was sacked in November 2021 with the Red Devils sat seventh in the Prem and on a run of just one win in seven Prem matches.
Carrick has failed to win any of his last NINE matches across all competitions — the club’s worst run in 38 years.
Last week, before Saturday’s 2-0 loss at Chelsea, SunSport revealed United had decided to axe Carrick but club chiefs could not decide on a replacement amid struggles to land Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler or Aston Villa manager Unai Emery. While Solskjaer is not pitching for Carrick’s job, he will not rule out another stint at the club.
Speaking to TV2, he added: “I feel like I have unfinished business. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again.”
“If Michael does well for ten years and decides to quit, and they ask me if I can take them for two months, of course I wouldn’t say no.
“I’ve been at that club for 18-19 years, so it’s part of the family. But it’s not something I’m thinking about. I miss it, yes. I could have imagined being there forever, but life goes on. It was a very special period.”
The Norwegian, 53, held talks with United’s hierarchy before Carrick was appointed as caretaker in January, then signing a two-year contract in May to do the job on a permanent basis. Solskjaer explained: “None of us were desperate to get the job. We’d probably be up for the job if they asked. At the time, there was talk of being an interim coach for the rest of the season.
“When I spoke to United, I also boasted about Michael. ‘If you choose him, you will get a good man,’ I said. He did the same to me. I had a nice chat with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada. We didn’t talk about contract length or anything. I volunteered if needed and didn’t have any demands.
“I gave my input on what is needed for the club to move forward. It was one small chat we had. There were no negotiations.— Sun
