Manchester United have begun early discussions with a group of former players over the possibility of taking charge as caretaker manager until the end of the season. Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have all been approached in preliminary talks following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
The conversations are described as exploratory rather than decisive, but BBC Sport understands Carrick is viewed as a strong option. Amorim was relieved of his duties on Monday after a difficult 14-month spell, with Fletcher stepping in as interim head coach for the time being.
Fletcher will remain in charge until a short-term appointment is made, while United continue their search for a permanent manager, which is expected to conclude in the summer.
Familiar Faces in the Frame as United Weigh Options
United’s director of football Jason Wilcox has held discussions with Fletcher and his former team-mates Carrick and Solskjaer. Another ex-United striker, Ruud van Nistelrooy, is also thought to be under consideration after an impressive stint as caretaker in 2024, when he oversaw three wins and a draw from four matches.
Solskjaer previously followed a similar path, initially stepping in after Jose Mourinho’s sacking in 2018 before being appointed full-time manager, a role he held until 2021. Carrick, meanwhile, has been without a club since leaving Middlesbrough last June.
Alongside the caretaker discussions, United are also drawing up a shortlist for the long-term position. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner and Marseille boss Roberto de Zerbi are believed to be early contenders. Glasner, however, played down the speculation when asked directly.
“I am the Crystal Palace manager,” he said. “It makes no sense to ask me any more questions about it.”
‘An Amazing Honour’ – Fletcher Focused on Immediate Task
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League trip to Burnley, Fletcher said his attention is firmly on preparing the team rather than future decisions.
“It’s surreal — an amazing honour to lead a Manchester United team,” Fletcher said.
“I never imagined this could happen. Everything has moved so fast, but all my focus is on the Burnley game.”
He also acknowledged the expectations that come with the role.
“Everyone expects Manchester United to be winning and competing at the top,” he added. “In whatever role I’m in, I’ll do everything I can to help make that happen.”
For now, United’s immediate priority is stability, with familiar faces offering short-term solutions while the club plans its next long-term move.
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