Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly in talks with a Premier League team as he plans his return to management. Since his departure from United in November 2021, Solskjaer has turned down several managerial offers from both clubs and national teams. He has not coached a team since then.
However, after narrowly missing out on the Besiktas job earlier this week, the Norwegian appears eager to return to the sidelines.
According to the Sun, Solskjaer hinted earlier this year that he might consider taking on another club position. This opportunity could materialize with newly promoted Leicester City, who have reportedly reached out to the 51-year-old.
Leicester City recently achieved promotion back to the Premier League, but their head coach, Enzo Maresca, left abruptly to take up a managerial position at Chelsea. Consequently, the Foxes are now in search of a new manager.
Reports suggest that Leicester chairman Top Srivaddhanaprabha holds Solskjaer in high regard. Solskjaer was considered for the managerial role last summer after Dean Smith’s departure, but the position ultimately went to Maresca.
Although no formal negotiations have been reported yet, Solskjaer is expected to be on Leicester’s shortlist of candidates to replace Maresca.
Solskjaer first took over as caretaker manager at Manchester United in December 2018, following the dismissal of Jose Mourinho. He initially enjoyed significant success, leading the team to impressive performances in his first two full seasons at Old Trafford.
Under his leadership, United secured third and second-place finishes in the Premier League, which earned him a permanent contract.
Despite these early successes, Solskjaer’s tenure at United ended after a poor run of form. He was dismissed following five losses in seven Premier League games, culminating in a 4-1 defeat to Watford. Since leaving United, Solskjaer has remained active in football, serving as a technical observer for UEFA since September of last year.
In addition to Solskjaer, Leicester City is reportedly considering other candidates for their managerial position. Steve Cooper, who has impressed with his work at Nottingham Forest, is another name on their list. Additionally, the club has also reached out to former Chelsea manager Graham Potter, who is currently available.
Solskjaer’s potential return to management with Leicester City would mark an interesting chapter in his career. Known for his attacking style of play and ability to develop young talent, Solskjaer could be a fitting choice for a Leicester team looking to establish themselves in the Premier League once again.
His experience in managing a top club like Manchester United, combined with his tactical knowledge and leadership skills, makes him a strong contender for the role.
Leicester City, having experienced the highs of Premier League success under Claudio Ranieri and the challenges of maintaining that level, will be looking for a manager who can bring stability and continued growth.
Solskjaer’s ability to handle pressure and his familiarity with the English top-flight could make him an ideal candidate to lead the Foxes in the upcoming season.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether Solskjaer will indeed return to Premier League management with Leicester City or if another candidate will take the helm. Regardless, Solskjaer’s potential comeback is a testament to his resilience and enduring appeal in the footballing world.
