Solskjaer reveals unfinished business at United while coaching Norwegian fourth-tier side

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keeping himself sharp by working with FCK, a Norwegian fourth-tier club based in Kristiansund, while he waits for his next senior managerial appointment. The 53-year-old has been assisting the club’s youth setup and first team since being dismissed by Besiktas in August 2025, according to Norwegian broadcaster TV2.

Solskjaer’s involvement with FCK came to light as Manchester United’s managerial situation drew him back into the spotlight. Following Ruben Amorim’s departure from Old Trafford, the club held discussions with Solskjaer about a potential interim return, but ultimately appointed his former team-mate and one-time backroom staff member Michael Carrick instead.

Speaking to TV2, Solskjaer was candid about his feelings on the matter. “None of us were desperate to get the job,” he said. “We’d probably be up for the job if they asked. At the time, there was talk of being an interim coach for the rest of the season. Going back to what has been is not always as good. Yes, I had lined up, but I didn’t think it would last longer than the summer. It was probably time for someone else to try.”

Despite stepping aside, Solskjaer acknowledged a lingering sense that his time at United ended prematurely. “I also feel like I have something unresolved,” he admitted. “Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again.”

Solskjaer managed United for nearly three years after replacing José Mourinho as caretaker in December 2018, guiding the club to a Europa League final and a Premier League runners-up finish before being sacked in November 2021. His only senior role since has been a brief spell at Besiktas, which ended last August.

Despite missing out on the United job, Solskjaer expressed confidence in Carrick’s ability to turn around the club’s fortunes. United are currently on a nine-game winless run. “Michael has what it takes to take that club forward,” Solskjaer said. “I think he’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what’s needed.”