Solskjaer Leads Race for Man Utd Interim Role as New Boss Gets Final Say on Zirkzee

Manchester United have identified Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their leading candidate to step into the interim manager's role, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, following the club's decision to part ways with Ruben Amorim on Monday.

The Portuguese boss's disappointing spell at Old Trafford has ended prematurely, leaving United to scramble for solutions. Darren Fletcher will oversee the next couple of matches while the club settles on a longer-term interim arrangement through the remainder of the season, with a permanent appointment planned for summer.

Romano has revealed that discussions between Solskjaer and United are progressing, with the former manager signalling his willingness to assist the club. Contract terms, wages, and timing are all non-issues from Solskjaer's perspective—he's simply keen to help United navigate their current crisis.

"Everything is agreed on his side. Now it is up to Manchester United to decide whether to proceed," Romano stated on his YouTube channel.

Other internal candidates under consideration include Michael Carrick and Ruud van Nistelrooy, both of whom possess intimate knowledge of the club's operations. Nevertheless, Solskjaer remains the favourite at this stage.

The appointment of a new interim boss carries significant implications for United's playing squad. Whoever takes the reins will hold the deciding vote on Joshua Zirkzee's immediate future, with Serie A side Roma maintaining keen interest in the striker. Zirkzee himself appears open to the prospect of a move away from Old Trafford.

Kobbie Mainoo's situation has shifted markedly following Amorim's departure. Despite Napoli's recent advances and the possibility of a loan arrangement while relations with the previous manager remained strained, United's hierarchy have decided to retain faith in the young midfielder. The expectation is that fresh management could unlock additional opportunities for Mainoo during the second half of the campaign.

Fletcher will be supported by Jonny Evans, who returns to the club's backroom staff to provide assistance during this turbulent period.