Manchester United’s players are increasingly convinced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be appointed manager on a permanent basis.
Solskjaer has huge support within the United dressing room after overseeing a startling transformation at Old Trafford on and off the pitch in the 11 weeks since being placed in temporary charge following Jose Mourinho’s sacking.
Gary Neville, the former United captain, claimed last month that there would be “mutiny” if the club opted against appointing Solskjaer, but there is a growing belief among the players that the Norwegian is making himself indispensable and the hierarchy will give him the job.
Although Solskjaer’s personal touch, grown up management and the long-awaited return to an attacking, front foot mindset have been warmly received by the squad, helping foster a burgeoning team spirit, they also believe they are in capable hands tactically and in coaching and development terms under the former United striker and his close-knit staff.
One of United’s key requirements is appointing a manager who can maximise potential after feeling too many talents stagnated or regressed under Mourinho – and the improvement in so many players of all ages and in different positions is a feather in Solskjaer’s cap.
United’s players have been extremely receptive to the dynamic between Solskjaer and his backroom team, which comprises his No. 2 Mike Phelan – Sir Alex Ferguson’s long-term assistant – former United midfielder Michael Carrick and coaches Kieran McKenna and Mark Dempsey. Solskjaer empowers them all and gives them key roles to play.
The club’s powerbrokers have also been encouraged by the way Solskjaer has handled the current injury crisis, which has robbed him of the majority of his first choice midfield and attack, and the impact of the stand-ins.
United have said a “thorough recruitment process” will be carried out in the search for Mourinho’s permanent successor, but there has yet to be a formal approach to another manager about the position.