“Man United in temporary charge, in talks with Solskjaer and Carrick — source”

Manchester United have initiated “early-stage informal discussions” with several potential candidates to take on the role of interim manager following the abrupt dismissal of head coach Rúben Amorim on Monday, sources have informed ESPN.

Among those reportedly being considered are former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick, with the club planning face-to-face meetings to assess their suitability for the position. Ruud van Nistelrooy, who previously served as interim boss for four games last season following Erik ten Hag’s departure and before Amorim’s appointment, is also understood to be under consideration. Former United captain Wayne Rooney, however, has not been approached.

With Manchester United currently seeking their seventh permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in May 2013, the club has entrusted under-18 coach Darren Fletcher with temporary charge for Wednesday’s Premier League clash at Burnley, as well as Sunday’s FA Cup third-round fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford.

However, sources indicate that the club hierarchy is inclined towards appointing an experienced interim manager to oversee the remainder of the season before making a permanent summer appointment. CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox have therefore begun exploratory talks with a number of potential candidates to gauge their interest and availability.

Solskjaer, who managed United from December 2018 until November 2021, has been out of work since his departure from Turkish side Beşiktaş in August. Meanwhile, Carrick enjoyed an unbeaten three-game stint as interim manager following Solskjaer’s exit in 2021 and has been available since leaving Middlesbrough last summer after nearly three years at the helm of the Championship club.

Discussions with the shortlisted candidates are understood to be preliminary, allowing the club to evaluate options carefully before committing to an interim appointment. The next manager, whether interim or permanent, will inherit a squad in transition and a club eager to regain stability after Amorim’s 14-month tenure.

Potential Interim Manager Candidates – Manchester United