Solskjaer backs Carrick as ‘right man’ for Manchester United amid growing pressure

Abdullateef Fowewe

Former Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has endorsed current head coach Michael Carrick, insisting he is the right person to take the club forward despite a difficult start to the 2026-27 season.

Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster TV2, on Sunday Solskjaer said, “Michael has what it takes to take that club forward, I think he’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans, and knows what’s required. You don’t see that ‘devil’ in him. But it’s there, and I have it too. We are so incredibly alike.”

He drew parallels between their careers, noting that few expected either man to manage United.

“When I spoke with United, I also spoke highly of Michael. ‘If you choose him, you’re getting a good man,’ I said. I believe he did the same for me. Neither of us was desperate to get the job. But we’d likely step up if they asked.”

Carrick took charge of United earlier in 2026, initially on an interim basis following the departure of Ruben Amorim, before being given the role more permanently.

The former midfielder, who played under Sir Alex Ferguson and later worked on Solskjaer’s coaching staff, has faced mounting scrutiny after a poor run of results.

United have struggled for wins, with a recent 2-0 defeat at Chelsea leaving them near the bottom of the Premier League table and raising questions about Carrick’s future.

Club officials have so far stuck with Carrick for the immediate fixtures, including a Champions League match against Roma, though his position is expected to be reviewed again during the next international break.

Solskjaer, who managed United from 2018 to 2021 and held talks about a possible return earlier this year, has continued to offer support to his former teammate.