Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that he would be willing to return to Manchester United as Michael Carrick’s replacement, despite publicly backing his former assistant to succeed at Old Trafford.

The Norwegian remains closely associated with United, having enjoyed a successful playing career at the club before returning as manager in December 2018.

Initially appointed on an interim basis following Jose Mourinho’s dismissal, Solskjaer impressed sufficiently to earn the position permanently and went on to guide United to second place in the Premier League during the 2020/21 season.

However, his time in charge ended in November 2021 following a difficult run of results, with Carrick briefly stepping into the managerial position following his departure.

The two former teammates have remained close, although they found themselves competing for the same job earlier this year when United dismissed Ruben Amorim.

Both held discussions with the club’s hierarchy about taking charge until the end of the season, but United ultimately appointed Carrick.

The former midfielder subsequently impressed during his interim spell, securing Champions League qualification and earning a permanent contract until 2028.

However, United’s disappointing start to the new campaign has placed Carrick under increasing scrutiny, with speculation growing about potential alternatives should the club decide to make another change.

Solskjaer has now admitted that he would consider replacing Carrick in the future, although he stressed that he hopes his former colleague enjoys a lengthy spell in charge.

Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster TV2, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was asked whether he would be interested in returning to Old Trafford if United approached him again.

“If Michael does well for ten years and decides to step down, and they ask me if I could take over for two months, then of course I wouldn’t say no,” he explained.

“I’ve spent 18–19 years at that club, so it’s part of my family. But it’s not something I’m thinking about.”

Solskjaer also admitted that he still feels he has unfinished business at Manchester United, despite acknowledging that returning to a former club is not always the best decision.

“I do miss it, yes. I could have imagined staying there forever, but life goes on,” he said.

“I also feel like I have some unfinished business. Naturally, it would have been fun to have the opportunity again.”

The 53-year-old also addressed the discussions he held with United executives Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada in January, rejecting suggestions that his demands had prevented him from securing the interim position.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insisted that no formal negotiations had taken place and that he had simply offered to help the club if required.

Despite his willingness to return at some stage, he was emphatic in his support for Carrick.

“Michael has what it takes to take that club forward,” he said.

“I think he’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans, and knows what’s required.”

For now, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made it clear that he is not campaigning to replace Michael Carrick, but his comments leave open the possibility of a second spell as manager at Old Trafford should the opportunity arise in the future.