Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer comes out in support of Michael Carrick following a disastrous start to the season.

Speaking to TV 2, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has backed Michael Carrick to lead Manchester United forward. Yet the former manager admitted he would find it difficult to turn down a future opportunity to return to Old Trafford.

The former Manchester United manager revealed that he held talks with the club in January following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. However, Carrick ultimately secured the interim role ahead of his former teammate.

Solskjaer insisted that he made no demands during the discussions, dismissing reports that he had sought a longer contract or assurances about his future.

“No, that’s just nonsense! I had a nice chat with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada. We didn’t talk about contract length or anything. I volunteered if needed and didn’t have any demands,” he said.

The Norwegian clarified that the conversation was informal rather than a serious attempt to negotiate a return to the dugout.

“I gave my input on what is needed for the club to move forward. It was one small chat we had. There were no negotiations,” Solskjaer added.

Despite missing out on the position, the 53-year-old admitted that he still has unfinished business at Manchester United, where he managed the club between 2018 and 2021. Solskjaer acknowledged the risks of a return, suggesting appointing someone new could have served United better.

“I also feel like I have something unresolved. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again,” he said.

The former striker has now thrown his support behind Carrick, who is facing mounting pressure amid a difficult run of results. Solskjaer highlighted parallels in intelligence and work ethic, arguing Carrick’s personality is often underestimated.

“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 needed,” he explained.

The pair remain in frequent contact, having worked together during Solskjaer’s managerial tenure and shared the difficult experience of his departure in November 2021.

Although Solskjaer is enjoying a quieter life in his hometown of Kristiansund, he has not ruled out returning to management. He currently spends time with local club FCK’s youth and senior teams but expects to take another job when the right opportunity arises.

Solskjaer is not actively seeking a return to Old Trafford

Asked whether he would consider returning to United if the club approached him again, Solskjaer gave a measured response:

“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. I’ve been at that club for 18-19 years, so it’s part of the family. But it’s not something I’m thinking about.”

Though Solskjaer remains open to a return, he is currently focused on his work with FCK’s youth and senior teams. While the 53-year-old has showcased his support for Carrick, the results suggest he might not be around beyond the international break, as he has failed to win any of their last nine games across competitions.

Following their defeat to Chelsea, United have slipped to 17th in the table, raising serious concerns about their season. With AS Roma and Aston Villa up next before the break, Carrick could have just two games left to turn things around and save his job.