Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has expressed confidence in Michael Carrick’s ability to steer the club through a difficult period, despite mounting pressure on Carrick’s position. United’s current interim head coach is overseeing the team’s worst league start in four decades, and reports indicate that the club’s leadership has decided to relieve him of his duties after the upcoming international break. However, no successor has been confirmed as the club continues to pursue potential candidates, including Brighton’s Graham Potter and Aston Villa’s Unai Emery.

Solskjaer, who spent 11 years as a player at Manchester United and managed the team from 2018 to 2021, praised Carrick’s determination and deep understanding of the club. “Michael has what it takes to take that club forward,” Solskjaer said. He added that while fans may not see Carrick’s “devil” side—a reference to a ruthless competitive edge—Carrick shares many qualities with him. “He’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what’s needed,” Solskjaer said.

The former Norwegian manager recounted his own unexpected rise to the managerial role at United and suggested that Carrick’s path may be similar. “Maybe not many people thought I would become a football coach, at least not manager of Manchester United. Many probably thought the same about Michael Carrick,” he said.

Solskjaer also revealed that he remains close to United’s leadership and was consulted before Carrick’s appointment in January. At that time, Carrick took charge on an interim basis following Solskjaer’s dismissal in November 2021. “When I spoke to United, I also boasted about Michael. ‘If you choose him, you will get a good man,’ I said,” Solskjaer recalled. He described his involvement as limited to a brief conversation offering his perspective without any formal negotiations.

While Solskjaer stopped short of indicating a desire to return as manager, he acknowledged a lingering connection to the club and said he would be open to stepping in temporarily if needed. “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,” he said. “I’ve been at that club for 18-19 years, so it’s part of the family.”

Despite the current challenges facing Manchester United on the field, Solskjaer expressed a fondness for his time with the club and a belief in its future potential. “I miss it, yes. I could have imagined being there forever, but life goes on. It was a very special period,” he added.