Inside Man United chief’s three-hour dinner which saw permanent boss handed job
None of Manchester United’s permanent managers since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement have reached 200 games in charge
Manchester United have appointed several permanent managers since Sir Alex Ferguson retired(Image: Marc Atkins, Getty Images)
Michael Carrick has inserted himself into the conversation for Manchester United’s next permanent manager after an impressive start to his interim tenure. However, the club has been cautious about rushing into a decision – unlike their approach in 2019.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, much like Carrick, presided over an immediate transformation after assuming temporary control. The Norwegian took over in December 2018 following Jose Mourinho’s dismissal and tasted victory in each of his opening six league fixtures, later orchestrating a remarkable comeback triumph against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16.
Solskjaer was appointed permanent boss at the end of March 2019, shortly after that dramatic victory at the Parc des Princes. The Sun reported the agreement was finalised weeks beforehand, though, indicating the decision was reached following a three-hour meal with club chief executive Ed Woodward.
The duo are understood to have eaten at Cibo, an Italian eatery in Hale which launched in 2018. The establishment remains operational today, alongside further venues in Greater Manchester, with diners at the Hale branch able to spend up to £20 for pasta options or £67 for a whole lobster.
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Solskjaer and Woodward reportedly convened on the anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster, with the manager having earlier joined ex-United captain Bryan Robson in laying a wreath for the victims. It’s said the manager shook hands with Woodward before club cars arrived to transport both men from the restaurant.
United’s next league game came just days later, with Paul Pogba bagging a brace as Solskjaer’s team beat Fulham 3-0. The victory propelled his team into the top four, but they would ultimately end the season in sixth place after a late-season collapse.
United subsequently had two full campaigns with Solskjaer at the helm, finishing third and then second. However, the 2021/22 season saw a downturn in fortunes, leading to the dismissal of the former Cardiff City boss with the club languishing in 7th position and some way off the Champions League spots.
Carrick stepped in as interim manager at that juncture, but only oversaw two league matches before Ralf Rangnick took over for the remainder of the campaign. The former Middlesbrough boss has already had a longer stint this time around, and United will likely wait until the summer to appoint their next permanent manager.
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Zinedine Zidane is one name who has been linked with the role before, including in 2021 when Solskjaer was let go, and he remains unattached. However, recent reports suggest the Frenchman has a verbal agreement to become the next manager of his national team.
For Carrick, the trial for the role continues when United face Everton away on Monday night. A win would see United regain fourth position and open up a gap over Chelsea and Liverpool.
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