Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted he would welcome an opportunity to return to the club, amid growing pressure on current head coach Michael Carrick.

United’s difficult season has continued to attract criticism following their 2-0 defeat to Chelsea on Saturday afternoon, which reportedly left them 17th in the Premier League table.

The Red Devils were level on points with 18th-placed Crystal Palace and only two points above bottom-placed Sunderland, intensifying concerns over the club’s poor form.

Solskjaer previously worked alongside Carrick at Old Trafford, where the former midfielder served as part of his backroom staff before the Norwegian was dismissed in November 2021.

Following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January, both Solskjaer and Carrick were reportedly interviewed for the interim managerial position, but the club eventually appointed Carrick.

Speaking to Norwegian television station TV2 about the possibility of managing United again, Solskjaer admitted that he would not turn down another opportunity.

“Going back to what has been is not always as good,” he said.

“Yes, I had lined up [as Manchester United’s interim manager last season], but I didn’t think it would last longer than the summer. It was probably time for someone else to try.

“I also feel like I have something unresolved. Of course it would have been nice to have the opportunity again.”

However, the Norwegian was quick to clarify that he was not seeking to replace Carrick, whom he described as a friend and someone capable of leading the club forward.

“If Michael does well for 10 years and decides to quit, and they ask me if I can take them for two months, of course I wouldn’t say no.

“I’ve been at that club for 18-19 years, so it’s part of the family. But it’s not something I’m thinking about,” he added.

Despite United’s struggles, Solskjaer expressed confidence in Carrick’s ability to turn things around, insisting that his former colleague understands the club and its supporters.

“Michael has what it takes to take that club forward. I think he’s the right man. He understands the club, understands the fans and knows what’s needed,” Solskjaer said.