Ex-Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be set for first managerial role since leaving the PL giants: Reports
Former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reportedly held talks with Sweden about becoming their new national team manager.
Swedish outlet fotbollskanalen reports that the Swedish FA met with Solskjaer earlier this winter regarding the position. Daniel Backstrom is currently the caretaker coach of Blågult.
The Norweigan tactician was said to be interested in the role but Sweden have since been eyeing former captain Olof Mellberg and Australia women's coach Tony Gustavsson.
Solskjaer has been out of management since November 2021 when Manchester United sacked him. He spent three years with the Red Devils, initially appointed as the club's caretaker boss.
The iconic former striker oversaw 78 wins in 149 games while in the Old Trafford. He guided United to the UEFA Europa League final and a second-placed finish in the league in the 2020-2021 campaign.
Solskjaer's demise at Manchester United came after a disastrous three-game losing streak. His side suffered defeats to Liverpool (5-0), Manchester City (2-0) and Watford (4-1).
The Norweigan has since stepped away from management, returning to his homeland to coach youngsters. He recently said (via Manchester Evening News):
"I'm doing a lot of coaching [in Norway], four times per week, and we have three teams. I'm helping the kids, who enjoy it."
Sweden failed to qualify for Euro 2024 after finishing third in Group F. Solskjaer could be reunited with Victor Lindelof if he does take up the role. The Manchester United defender is his nation's captain.
Solskjaer showed support for Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag amid a difficult ongoing season
Erik ten Hag succeeded Solskjaer as Manchester United's permanent manager in July 2022. The Dutchman oversaw a third-placed finish and ended the club's six-year trophy drought by guiding them to the Carabao Cup last season.
However, Ten Hag's Red Devils have nosedived this campaign, sitting eighth in the league after 20 games. They've crashed out of the UEFA Champions League and the Carabao Cup.
Solskjaer sympathized with the former Ajax manager, stressing how difficult the job is. He told The Athletic:
"I know what he's going through. It's a dream job, but it's difficult. You're dealing with humans with all their problems and backgrounds -- this isn't a computer simulation. But most (players) are good professionals who want to do well. Some think about number one first, most think of the club."
Ten Hag is coming under increasing pressure amid his side's struggles. His side have lost 14 games across competitions this season.