Manchester United coach, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, is under high pressure as the Red Devils swallow a series of poor results this season. Manchester United’s performance this season has been inconsistent, especially in the Premier League. In the last six matches, Man United have swallowed four defeats, one draw and only one win.
Those minor results included a humiliating 0-5 loss to Liverpool and most recently 0-2 at the hands of Manchester City. Worse, two defeats from the rival suffered in Old Trafford. Man United have now conceded in their last 14 home games in all competitions, equaling the poor record in September 1954 and February 1955 ago.
This record is Man United’s second-worst conceding streak at Old Trafford, after those between April 1958 and March 1959 (21 games). In fact, Man United’s defense is filled with the world’s most expensive defender Harry Maguire, Sweden captain Victor Lindelof, and Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka who impressed last season. In addition, Man United’s central defender ammunition has also increased with the arrival of four-time Champions League winner, Raphael Varane, who was recruited from Real Madrid.
The Red Devils have also been knocked out in the English League Cup. Meanwhile, they appear less convincing in the Champions League this season. In that elite competition, Man United did top the Group F standings. However, they have only earned seven points from two difficult wins, one draw and one loss.
Based on the game scheme, Man United is also often unsightly. In fact, the Red Devils squad this season is so luxurious. The Red Devils have had three stars this season, with Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Old Trafford.
Man United’s inconsistency and poor results, as well as Solskjaer who has not been able to optimize the players also made it hotly discussed that he would be kicked out. Man United officials even had a meeting to discuss Solskjaer’s future after Man United were massacred by Liverpool 0-5.
In the end, Solskjaer was still given the trust by Man United with the role of Sir Alex Ferguson who was reportedly involved. Meanwhile, European transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had reported that Man United would give Solskjaer a second chance against Man City. Even though Man United lost again, Solskjaer is still durable in the Red Devils coaching chair in the midst of increasing pressure.
Why is Solskjaer still at Manchester United?
The BBC’s Simon Stone writes that Man United officials want Solskjaer to carry out the club’s long-term plans. The Norwegian coach is considered the right person by Man United officials. They wanted someone who could build a squad by mixing world-class recruits and academy graduates. On the other hand, Man United officials understand the club is in a difficult situation. However, they still want to believe in Solskjaer for the sake of long-term plans.
What If Solskjaer Is Fired?
A coach with attributes who can build a squad for the long term is believed to be Man United’s choice if they sacks Solskjaer. In addition, he must being able to combine world-class recruits and academy graduates. This is what makes Man United reportedly reluctant to recruit Antonio Conte because the tactician does not have these attributes.
Simon Stone wrote that Mauricio Pochettino, Brendan Rodgers and Erik ten Hag were potential options for Man United. The names above have also been linked with Man United amid speculation about Solskjaer’s future. Mauricio Pochettino may not be possible as he just recently coached Paris Saint-Germain. Moreover, Erik ten Hag has extended his contract with Ajax Amsterdam this season. Meanwhile, Brendan Rodgers, who is in charge of Leicester City, is believed to be questioned by Man United fans because he is a former Liverpool coach.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer himself got a new contract with a duration of three years or until 2024 last summer. His work ties were extended after leading Man United to a second-place finish in the Premier League and through to the Europa League final last season.
