Man Utd new manager: Fabrizio Romano reveals surprise change as Solskjaer no longer favourite

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 12 Jan 2026 07:02 GMT
• 4 min read

News

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is no longer expected to become Manchester United’s interim manager until the end of the season, with Fabrizio Romano announcing that Michael Carrick is poised to land the job until the campaign is over.

Ruben Amorim was sacked last week and Solskjaer was immediately put forward as the man to lead the Red Devils until the end of the season.

But in a shock change, there has been an Old Trafford rethink and now Carrick is in line for the post.

Michael Carrick favourite for interim role

“Manchester United are ready to appoint their new caretaker manager from now until the end of the season,” Romano revealed. “In the last 12 hours, Michael Carrick has made important progress in talks with Manchester United after a face-to-face interview.

“The meeting between Manchester United management and Michael Carrick was very positive in terms of ideas, tactics, communication and intention. The feeling was really good, and as of tonight Carrick is becoming the leading option for the interim job.”

Solskjaer remains available but momentum shifts

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has remained firmly in the picture, but the balance has now shifted following further discussions.

“Ole Gunnar Solskjaer immediately made himself available via his agents after Ruben Amorim was sacked,” Romano said. “Manchester United had a meeting with Solskjaer and it was a good one. He is ready to help the club and very excited about the opportunity.”

“For Solskjaer it has never been about money or contract terms. He would be absolutely ready to return to Manchester United, but in the last 24 hours the Carrick option has clearly advanced.”

Darren Fletcher ruled out after Brighton defeat

Darren Fletcher was briefly considered but ultimately fell out of contention following recent results.

“Manchester United were quite happy with Darren Fletcher’s methods in training,” Romano explained. “But the Brighton game was always going to be decisive.

“After a poor performance against Brighton and elimination from the FA Cup, the club decided to accelerate talks for a different interim manager. Fletcher was never the favourite, and after that game his chances were effectively over.”

Permanent manager search already planned for summer

Regardless of who takes charge on an interim basis, United’s long-term plan remains unchanged.

“Manchester United will start immediately a process to prepare the new permanent managerial appointment for the summer,” Romano continued. “They will identify a shortlist of two or three candidates and begin meetings with managers and their representatives.

“Even if the interim manager does a very good job, United will not stop this process. If it is Michael Carrick and he performs well, he will obviously have a chance, but the club will still work in parallel on a permanent solution.”

Official announcement expected within days

A final decision is now close, with United keen to bring clarity ahead of upcoming fixtures.

“The understanding from sources close to Manchester United is that an official announcement is expected very soon,” Romano concluded. “Possibly within 24 to 48 hours.

“Carrick is ready to say yes, Solskjaer is waiting, and financially it will not be a problem. At this stage it is a club decision, but Michael Carrick is now the favourite to become Manchester United’s interim manager.”

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