Manchester United Sound Out Former Players for Caretaker Manager Role

Manchester United have opened early discussions with former players Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer over the possibility of appointing one of them as caretaker manager until the end of the season.

The talks are at an exploratory stage, with no final decision yet made on who will temporarily take charge following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. BBC Sport understands that Michael Carrick is currently viewed as a strong candidate among the options being considered.

Amorim was relieved of his duties on Monday after a difficult 14-month spell in charge. In the interim, Darren Fletcher has been placed in temporary control of the team and will remain in that role until a caretaker appointment is finalised. The club plans to appoint a permanent manager during the summer.

Director of football Jason Wilcox has reportedly held conversations with Fletcher, Carrick and Solskjaer, while former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is also believed to be in contention. Van Nistelrooy previously enjoyed a successful spell as caretaker in 2024, recording three wins and a draw.

Solskjaer was initially appointed caretaker manager in 2018 following Jose Mourinho’s exit and later served as United’s full-time boss for three years. Carrick, meanwhile, has been without a club since leaving Middlesbrough in June last year.

As United assess interim options, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner and Marseille head coach Roberto De Zerbi are understood to be among early candidates for the permanent role. Glasner declined to comment on the speculation, insisting his focus remains on his current job.

Speaking ahead of United’s midweek fixture against Burnley, Fletcher described the opportunity to lead the team as “an amazing honour,” adding that his immediate focus is on delivering results on the pitch.