Solskjaer's first Man Utd press conference: All the reaction & more as interim boss faced the media

Solskjaer's first meeting with the media is expected to take place on Friday, ahead of his first game at the helm. The Norwegian will preside over training at Carrington on Thursday and run the rule over his players before the clash against Cardiff.

Solskjaer to meet media on Friday 📅

One man who knows all about Solskjaer is his former Manchester United and Norway team-mate Henning Berg. "He’s a clever man, don’t be fooled by his young face, he’s got steel in his eyes," Berg told <a href="https://www.skysports.com" target="_blank">Sky Sports</a>.&nbsp; "I’m sure he’ll be able to handle the players in his way, which will be different to the way that [Jose] Mourinho works. “A different approach with Solskjaer’s mentality with his way of doing things might get a lot of energy and getting players playing together again. "If you can do this you will win many matches.”

'Don't be fooled by his young face, he's got steel in his eyes'👊

The departure of Mourinho and arrival of Solskjaer could mean we are about to see the best from Paul Pogba. But it might spell bad news for Marouane Fellaini. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/pogba-in-fellaini-out-how-solskjaers-man-utd-could-line-up/dj4axpkyypok1hnrf8781uu0t" target="_blank">Click here to see how things could change.</a>

Pogba in, Fellaini out? How Solskjaer's Man Utd could line up ⚽️

Can a team divided by Mourinho be united by Solskjaer? That's the plan. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Can Solskjaer unite United? 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/qAGKexL4CB">pic.twitter.com/qAGKexL4CB</a>— Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1075323974790328320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Woodward: Solskjaer can unite Red Devils 🔴

Norwegian charged with bringing team and fans together

So, after a false start last night it's been officially confirmed: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the new Manchester United boss. Well, temporarily at least. “Manchester United is in my heart and it’s brilliant to be coming back in this role," Solskjaer told the club's official website.&nbsp; "I’m really looking forward to working with the very talented squad we have, the staff and everyone at the club." United's vice-chairman Ed Woodward hailed the appointment of the "club legend" and is confident that he can "united the players and the fans". Time will tell! <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/manchester-united-appoint-solskjaer-as-manager-until-end-of/pbe28o6tt2kp1h5lbmfrqhl25" target="_blank">Read the full story</a>.

CONFIRMED: Man Utd appoint Solskjaer ✅

A premature announcement appears to have confirmed that Manchester United have found their next manager. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer appears to be the club's new interim manager after the team website&nbsp;posted then rapidly took down a photo on the club's website. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/man-utd-accidentally-confirm-solskjaer-hired-as-interim/gxujc6meu45d1gx7yle9sa4g5">Read the full story on Goal!</a>

Man Utd appear to have confirmed their next manager 🙈

A post on the club's website appears to confirm the man to replace Mourinho

Jose Mourinho might be gone, but he won't be short of cash for a little while after he received an INSANE amount in his payoff from Manchester United? But exactly how much has he earned, and how does that compare to David Moyes and Louis van Gaal?&nbsp;Goal&nbsp;has done the hard work for you&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/revealed-manchester-uniteds-insane-mourinho-sacking-payout/iu2q0sgfftv419fqosv9wlthf" target="_blank">right here</a>...

How much is Mourinho's Man Utd payout? 💲

Portuguese to earn millions despite sacking

Those the thoughts of&nbsp;Goal's&nbsp;Mark Doyle, who believes that Mourinho's time in charge at Manchester United should spell the end of his time as a manager at the very top of the game. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/not-so-special-anymore-antiquated-mourinho-finished-at-the/7azyg69n1ltj1ndgrngw4lkfx" target="_blank">Read the full piece right here!</a>

Mourinho is FINISHED at the highest level ❌

Top jobs too big for the not so Special One

While the majority of the speculation today is centred around Jose Mourinho's potential replacement, but few have asked where Mourinho himself will end up next. Some reports claims Florentino Perez is keen to reunite with him at Real Madrid - but would he be the right man for the Bernabeu? "[Sacking] is a pity as he is a great coach and for him to be without a club is a pity," Madrid full-back Marcelo told a press conference ahead of his side's Club World Cup semi-final with Kashima Antlers. "Not for me to say if he should come to Real Madrid, but I really appreciate all he did for me at this club.” Not exactly a glowing endorsement...

Could Mourinho return to Real Madrid? 🇪🇸

It's not really a secret that Jose Mourinho tried to sign Steven Gerrard for Chelsea during his first stint at the helm at Stamford Bridge, and the pair retain a certain respect for one another. So when questioned about Mourinho's sacking, Rangers boss Gerrard had only positive things to say about the Portuguese. "He's a winner isn't he, how can I sit here and say anything bad about Jose Mourinho?" he told a press conference. "He's a serial winner everywhere he has gone. He's been sacked at United but he's won them a couple of trophies. He's done the best job since Alex Ferguson left." The best job since Fergie? Probably, but there's not much competition, is there?!

Mourinho the best Man Utd boss since Fergie - Gerrard 😕

Another press conference is taking place in London, and this one is particularly pertinent to the situation... Mauricio Pochettino is one of the main candidates to replace Jose Mourinho on a permanent basis come the summer, and he has been speaking to the media about the potential of him swapping north London for the north west: "I want to see my best wishes to [Mourinho]," he said.&nbsp;"I am so sorry, "I know him well, and it's sad news. It's not my business what happens at another club, I just want to send my best wishes to Jose. On the reports he could replace Mourinho, he added: "In five years here a lot of rumours have&nbsp;happened and&nbsp;I respect a lot the opinion of everyone. "A lot of rumours happen, but it's not my business what has happened. I want to deliver my best show at this football club." Cleared that one up then...

Pochettino responds to Mourinho sacking 👀

Spurs boss linked with Old Trafford hotseat

If you put some of your hard-earned cash on Laurent Blanc taking interim charge of Manchester United, we might have some bad news for you. While it seems Blanc is in the frame, another former United player has now emerged as a candidate in the shape of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer! A supersub as a player, is he the man to step in and save their season given his results as a manager? Check out the latest on Mourinho's potential replacements in our <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/live/transfer-news-and-rumours-live/1cjnfn324mery1x4flxq2c07sm" target="_blank">LIVE Transfer Blog</a>!

Solskjaer emerges as interim candidate 🇳🇴

Ex-Red Devils forward reportedly being considered

Fancy a flutter on the identity of the next permanent Manchester United boss? Well, Zinedine Zidane is the early favourite to take the role in the summer - would he be the right man?

Zidane the bookies' favourite to replace Mourinho 🤑

It's unlikely we will hear any direct quotes out of the Manchester United dressing room for a few days in the wake of Jose Mourinho's sacking, but Paul Pogba has already got tongues wagging with his latest social media post. The World Cup winner took to Instagram just minutes after Mourinho's sacking was announced with a photo of himself looking somewhat smug with a the caption 'Caption This'. The post was rather swiftly deleted, and given the image was taken from an Adidas photoshoot with hashtags related to the brand, it may well have been an ill-timed scheduled post. On the other hand, it may well have been a final farewell to Mourinho from the player he reportedly clashed with the most. Check it out <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/pogba-deletes-cryptic-tweet-after-mourinho-sacking-as/h9w0o895fwzz1vkahlz9z5lto" target="_blank">right here</a> and make your own mind up...

Pogba "reacts" to Mourinho sacking 📸

Those the sentiments of&nbsp;Goal's​ Chief Correspondent, Peter Staunton, who has given his thoughts on the big breaking news of the day. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/good-riddance-jose-moaning-mourinho-will-not-be-missed-at/182xma44797rk1nkvhd3lvo3cv" target="_blank">Read Peter's full take on Mourinho and why he had to go right here!</a>

Good riddance! Toxic Mourinho won't be missed ☠️

And while Ed Woodward and the Manchester United board sound out potential permanent successors to Mourinho, an interim coach needs to be found to lead them through the remainder of this season. Contrary to earlier reports it seems former United midfielder Michael Carrick, who joined Mourinho's coaching staff this season, will not be taking the role. And it has now emerged in the British media that ex-Red Devils defender Laurent Blanc, who previously managed Laurent Blanc, is being lined up to take the role ahead of Saturday's clash with Cardiff City. Follow all the latest updates on United's next manager with our <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/live/transfer-news-and-rumours-live/1cjnfn324mery1x4flxq2c07sm" target="_blank">LIVE Transfer Blog!</a>

Blanc in the frame for interim role 🇫🇷

So now Mourinho has gone, the search begins for the fourth permanent Manchester United manager since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013. But who could be tempted to take over what is becoming something of a poisoned chalice at Old Trafford? Three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid Zinedine Zidane is the current favourite while Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is a man many fans have been calling for. Goal's&nbsp;Mark Doyle breaks down their chances and the rest of the candidates <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/zidane-pochettino-the-managers-that-could-succeed-mourinho/160bzzg35jizi11o2vtn22tenr" target="_blank">right here!</a>

Who will replace Mourinho at Man Utd? 🤷

"Manchester United announces that manager Jose Mourinho has left the club with immediate effect," a club statement on Tuesday morning read. "The club would like to thank Jose for his work during his time at Manchester United and to wish him success in the future. "A new caretaker manager will be appointed until the end of the current season, while the club conducts a thorough recruitment process for a new, full-time manager." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/man-utd-sack-mourinho-after-poor-start-to-the-season/166lxpidmqy11r65xx1v9364c" target="_blank">Read the full story on Mourinho's sacking right here!</a>

Mourinho sacked: The full statement 📝

And so it's happened! Jose Mourinho has been sacked by Manchester United after two-and-a-half seasons in charge at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are currently sixth in the Premier League table - 11 points off fourth and 19 points behind leaders Liverpool - and so the club have acted now to try and salvage their season. But is it the right decision? Who can they get to replace him? And what now for Jose? Stick with&nbsp;Goal&nbsp;for all the latest!

Man Utd sack Jose Mourinho! 🔴

Red Devils part ways with ex-Chelsea boss

He’s accepted an offer, faced the press and got his feet under the table. The time for talking is now over and Manchester United’s new boss will open his reign at Cardiff on Saturday evening. It has been a whirlwind few days for all concerned at Old Trafford, and you can take a second look at how things unfolded by scrolling through our comprehensive coverage below.

Over to you Ole

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a smile back on his face, having been charged with the task of salvaging Manchester United's season. Will a collective smirk return to Old Trafford over the coming months? <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/solskjaers-smile-is-back-will-the-real-manchester-united/sri53ymx5l881qq4qmdqd26vd" target="_blank">Goal's Red Devils correspondent Kris Voakes casts an eye over the start of a new era.</a>

Will Man Utd get their smile back?

Playing the long game

Solskjaer will open his Red Devils reign with a trip to former employers Cardiff on Saturday. What will his first starting XI look like? <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/live/solskjaers-first-man-utd-press-conference-live-all-the-latest-as-/rj1afpx1lzsx19us8hauevcbk" target="_blank">Here's a possible line-up and all of the relevant team news.</a>

First game at the helm

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Welcome home, Ole 🏠 <a href="https://t.co/qY8lW0x7Gm">pic.twitter.com/qY8lW0x7Gm</a>— Goal UK (@GoalUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoalUK/status/1076049478350716928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

I got a feeling...

Romelu Lukaku will play no part in the start of a new era for Manchester United, with Solskjaer yet to meet with the Belgian striker. He said: “Lukaku has had a couple of days off, I’ve not seen him yet and I’ve not seen Alexis because he’s on his way back as well." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/lukaku-set-to-miss-solskjaers-first-game-in-charge-of-man/5erws12r9q9s16lmnqhu8vfjc" target="_blank">Read the full story on Goal!</a>

Missing men

The new Red Devils boss also hinted that, following a frustrating summer for Jose Mourinho, he may be given the chance to add during the January transfer window. “The club has their recruitment and scouting so I’m sure they’ve got their targets," said Solskjaer. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/solskjaer-hints-at-january-arrivals-at-man-utd-says-he-will-have-/41q28qcfn7pn1r8a66i5slwrr" target="_blank">Here's what else he had to say about possible additions.</a>

Fresh faces on the way?

Solskjaer covered a range of topics in his first press conference, with the influence of Sir Alex Ferguson on his career to date among the first. He said: "I’ve already been in touch with him, there’s no one to get better advice from." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/solskjaer-i-know-how-to-deal-with-man-utd-players-i-learnt/8fxm84l11cx71r38eh64vblpv" target="_blank">Check out the full story here.</a>

Picking the brains of the best

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole: "It feels like home." 🏠 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/VYM2oQsB9C">pic.twitter.com/VYM2oQsB9C</a>— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1076044286112612352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Back where he belongs

United have an 11-point gap to bridge if they are to finish in the top four this season. How does the new boss rate their chances? "I think first thing is first game, think about getting my principles into the boys, get the players to understand how I want them to play and let’s take the results later on and see how many points we can gather. But this club has made many, many points before but I’m not going to set that target now."

Top-four chances

Having been a player and a coach at Old Trafford, taking to the managerial hot-seat will take some getting used to. "Of course it is [surreal], I’ve been here as a player, 11 years, coach three and a half years, best part of 15 years of my life, it’s a third of my life, I’m getting old but it’s one of them that’s life, that was the same when I signed as a player. Nicky Butt the first lad I meet, says hi to me, you’re excited but it feels like home."

Surreal experience

Solskjaer is aware that his limited experience of Premier League management from a short spell at Cardiff may be a concern to some. "It’s all I’ve had, about 300 or 400 games as first team manager now and that period in Cardiff was a huge step for me and I’ve evaluated, reflected, made a few mistakes but if you don’t make mistakes you’re not going to learn, I made a few of them, but they’re in the Premier League now."

Learning curve

United have three games to take in before the end of the calendar year, but a busy schedule is being embraced. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">"Michael [Carrick] and Kieran [McKenna] have been great," says Ole. "It's great being back home and seeing the development already. There's so many games in the next 10-15 days, and it's about picking up results." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a>— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1076041038794498048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hectic festive schedule

Solskjaer is yet to meet two of the biggest stars in the squad he has inherited. "Lukaku has had a couple of days off, I’ve not seen him yet and I’ve not seen Alexis because he’s on his way back as well.&nbsp; “I’m looking forward to seeing them.”

Lukaku and Alexis?

The Red Devils boss will have a say on any January deals, both in and out. "I will have an input of course but the job now is to get to know the players, observe them and see the qualities they possess. “I have seen more or less every game from Norway when I’ve had time. I have to get to know the players, and see what I can help them improve on.&nbsp; “The club has their recruitment and scouting so I’m sure they’ve got their targets.”

Transfer plans

Solskjaer is happy to be filling in on an temporary basis for now, with no decision made on what will happen at the end of the season. "When you get a job like this and you sign for six months, you say ‘I’m happy to help out’. My job now is to do as well as I can and move the club forward as well as I can.&nbsp; “I understand that there are so many managers that would love to be at this club. I am one of them. It is not something that we have talked about.&nbsp; “They are going to do their process for the next six months.”

Permanent stay or quick fix?

No issues for the new man at the helm when it comes to squad harmony, which was not always the case for his predecessor. “They are footballers, they are happy and in a good mood. Every time you meet new people you are excited, it is a first time you see them. “I know a couple of course, I had them in the reserves and I’ve seen some of the kids grow up, even when I was a player. “They have been great.”

Happy squad

No convincing needed to take a high-profile post... <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole: "I didn't think twice when [United] called to sign me as a player. Obviously this is more of an honour, and I feel privileged to be helping the club for a few months." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a>— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1076039634159837184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Easy choice

Solskjaer admits he will be looking to be a Manchester United manager in the Sir Alex Ferguson mould: “He’s influenced me with everything to be fair, the way he’s dealt with people the way he was manager of the club, how he kept 25 international players happy and hungry wanting to improve but also the staff in and around the place, he’s been my mentor but I didn’t understand early on he’d be my mentor. “Towards the last, maybe the injury in 2003, I was making all the notes what he did in certain situations and I’ve already been in touch with him, there’s no one to get better advice from.”

Following on from Fergie

Solskjaer is in place, filling not only the shoes of Jose Mourinho but now a seat once occupied by the Portuguese. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Old Gunnar Solskjaer has arrived <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mufc</a> <a href="https://t.co/CH2YFPIWPX">pic.twitter.com/CH2YFPIWPX</a>— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) <a href="https://twitter.com/samuelluckhurst/status/1076032421466963968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He's here...

Will another legend return at some stage?

Goal's Manchester United correspondent Kris Voakes is in attendance for Solskjaer's first outing in front of the press pack and will be providing updates from inside Carrington. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">The early bird catches the new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> manager. <a href="https://t.co/rpovos2e0d">pic.twitter.com/rpovos2e0d</a>— Kris Voakes (@krisvoakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/krisvoakes/status/1076027781769822208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The stage is set

Solskjaer covered a range of topics during his opening interview as United boss. Ahead of his press conference, catch up on them all here: <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/its-a-fantastic-chance-champions-league-hero-solskjaer-relishing-/uimbbd2aew491ow2x0i8hm63m" target="_blank">Meeting with PSG</a> <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-manchester-united-clean-slate/1dvgf3oxlyok512lm88x6pz5i8" target="_blank">Clean slate for stars</a> <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/express-yourselves-solskjaer-calls-on-star-names-to-play-the-man-/1ffp9av4cxz9g1f37flazdz6z8" target="_blank">The 'Man Utd way'</a> <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/solskjaer-excited-to-work-with-worlds-best-de-gea/1w5k4zcu93bl81rfkrcfniaxwe" target="_blank">De Gea's future</a>

Subject matters

Solskjaer has already given his first interview as Red Devils boss, with MUTV chatting things through with the new man at the helm: <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> caretaker manager 🔴 Watch the rest of Ole's interview in our official app — download now for free: <a href="https://t.co/XN0xvwDZOO">https://t.co/XN0xvwDZOO</a> <a href="https://t.co/egHH9dORpu">pic.twitter.com/egHH9dORpu</a>— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1075820612759609344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

First words

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, fresh from being appointed as successor to Jose Mourinho at Manchester United on an interim basis, will face the media for the first time this morning. Goal will bring you the best of what he has to say, and what others have to say about him.

Question time

To catch up on all of the goings on from an eventful few days at Old Trafford, scroll back down through Goal’s comprehensive coverage and get yourself right up to date. A new era has been opened by the Red Devils and Solskjaer must now prove that he is the right man for the job.

Manchester United: The new era

Solskjaer will then take in a reunion with former employers Cardiff on Saturday in his first outing as Manchester United manager – with the Red Devils looking to start bridging a gap to the top four. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Next up for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a>: 🆚 Cardiff City 🗓 Saturday 22 December 🏟 Cardiff City Stadium ⏰ 17:30 GMT 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> <a href="https://t.co/4EvElX6HxC">pic.twitter.com/4EvElX6HxC</a> — Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1075743888332242944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bow against Bluebirds

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will face the media for the first time as Manchester United manager on Friday. Goal will bring you all of the best lines from that press conference, with the Norwegian set to outline his plans for the future and likely have his say on a Portuguese coach from the Red Devils’ recent past.

Media attention

Wayne Rooney has welcomed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s homecoming at&nbsp;Manchester United, with the Norwegian having been charged with the task of succeeding Jose Mourinho. He is not the only one to have had his say, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/rooney-welcomes-solskjaers-man-utd-homecoming-as-post/vy4uxjxz9dhb1tx390k2qfj3j" target="_blank">as you can see here</a>. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Just want to wish Ole Gunnar Solskjaer all the best in his new position. Good luck mate! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mufc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tbt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tbt</a> 🔴 <a href="https://t.co/8EENRvxH2Z">pic.twitter.com/8EENRvxH2Z</a> — Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) <a href="https://twitter.com/WayneRooney/status/1075708625778290688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rooney welcomes Solskjaer's Man Utd homecoming

Jose Mourinho “is a problem”, but the former Manchester United manager could be welcomed back to Real Madrid by Florentino Perez, accoriding to Ramon Calderon. Could the Portuguese really head back to the Santiago Bernabeu. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/mourinho-is-a-problem-but-dont-rule-out-real-madrid-return/qz7ayc1ssf8s12p47mp1rz7b0" target="_blank">Here's what a former Blancos supremo has had to say on that possibility.</a>

What next for Mourinho?

Manchester United's squad are ready to make a fresh start following the dismissal of Jose Mourinho. Paul Pogba was among those reported to have endured a breakdown in his working relationship with a former boss, so what does the future hold for him under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer?

Clean slate for Man Utd stars

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has arrived at Manchester United as he meets the players and oversees his first training session since taking over as interim manager. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/solskjaer-arrives-for-first-day-at-man-utd-as-he-meets-the/nbkctk22bkuu1hnbbzb9fl08r" target="_blank">Here's a quick run down of how a whirlwind 48 hours have played out</a> for the former Red Devils striker.

First day on the job

Mauricio Pochettino could have “his own statue outside the ground” at Tottenham, says Paul Parker, so why would he want to inherit the Manchester United mess left behind by Jose Mourinho? A good question, and <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/pochettino-can-get-his-own-statue-at-tottenham-so-why-would/150s4u6j74x81bxm4ec5eam21" target="_blank">here is the argument offered by a former Red Devils defender</a>.

Why would Pochettino want Man Utd job?

Mauricio Pochettino is “the special one” and will be the man to replace Jose Mourinho at Manchester United, says Jamie Redknapp. The ex-Spurs star told Sky Sports: "I think Manchester United will get him. I think they will go for it and I think they will get him. Of course [Spurs fans should be worried] because he's the special one, he's a great manager that everyone would want at their club." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/special-one-pochettino-will-join-man-utd-this-summer-says-former-/1gwxzxtzuqqd1hj3yujp9umey" target="_blank">Check out the full story right here.</a>

Special One II to replace the original?

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer arrives at Man Utd training with plan to imitate Sir Alex Ferguson <a href="https://t.co/sGRpvv5kce">https://t.co/sGRpvv5kce</a> <a href="https://t.co/BU9TGz7JFV">pic.twitter.com/BU9TGz7JFV</a>— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSunFootball/status/1075672165662539776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Ready to start work

Mauricio Pochettino has been warned off succeeding Jose Mourinho at Manchester United by Harry Redknapp, with the Argentine told “he’s got a better team at Tottenham, by far”. The ex-Spurs boss told talkSPORT: "Would he leave Spurs to go to Manchester United at the moment? He’s got a better team at Tottenham, by far." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/pochettino-warned-off-man-utd-as-former-tottenham-boss/1afxidce8ayd19umpvz72qcsz" target="_blank">Read the full story on Goal!</a>

Pochettino warned off Red Devils role

Who is to blame for Man Utd mess?

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has backed the "special" Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to steady the ship at the Premier League club. The Australian told Omnisport: "He'll bring a lot. He's a very good person, a special person I would say. "He will definitely bring a steadying hand and somebody as well that's very perceptive in terms of he'll be able to tell from now until the end of the season, and be able to report to the powers that be of the players that he thinks going forward Manchester United should keep and the ones they shouldn't." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/special-solskjaer-tipped-to-be-a-man-utd-success-story/15nr9799ezorb169sgt6zul4z2" target="_blank">Check out the full story here.</a>

'Special' Solskjaer tipped for success

Who can forget this classic Solskjaer moment? 🤣🤣

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's record as a Premier League manager: ⚽️ Played 18 👍 Won 3 ➖ Drawn 3 👎 Lost 12 <a href="https://t.co/dQ2EEEaSot">pic.twitter.com/dQ2EEEaSot</a>— William Hill (@WilliamHill) <a href="https://twitter.com/WilliamHill/status/1075356519921790977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Surely Ole can improve on this!

According to The Sun, Paul Pogba had quite an interesting reaction upon hearing news of Jose Mourinho's sacking.&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Pogba shouted ‘he f***ed with the wrong baller’ when Mourinho was sacked by Man Utd | <a href="https://twitter.com/ncustisTheSun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ncustisTheSun</a><a href="https://t.co/gt8ATlMHIO">https://t.co/gt8ATlMHIO</a> <a href="https://t.co/ADuyPq6efc">pic.twitter.com/ADuyPq6efc</a>— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSunFootball/status/1075525161053495298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pogba's colourful words after Mou's departure 😲

He hasn't played with the first team this season, but 18-year-old Angel Gomes has expressed his gratitude for Mourinho&nbsp;giving him his debut in 2017.&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">You allowed me to make my debut at 16 and play in front of the Stretford end something I will never forget ever. Thank you boss ✨ <a href="https://t.co/mzpiAJFc6V">pic.twitter.com/mzpiAJFc6V</a>— Santi Gomes (@agomes_47) <a href="https://twitter.com/agomes_47/status/1075501813154095105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gomes thanks Mourinho

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">It’s always tough for everyone involved with the club when something like this happens. However I’d like to say, that I will always be grateful to José Mourinho for this wonderful opportunity and bringing me to <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManUtd</a>. <a href="https://t.co/hxrlksz8uD">pic.twitter.com/hxrlksz8uD</a>— Diogo Dalot (@DalotDiogo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DalotDiogo/status/1075502671359033344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Dalot pays tribute to Mourinho

It appears that the ​talkSPORT&nbsp;team won't be joining the Solskjaer&nbsp;fan club any time soon!&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> have now gone from megastore to corner shop." "Could Man United finish bottom half?"<a href="https://twitter.com/talkSPORTDrive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@talkSPORTDrive</a> doesn't feel Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the man to take United forward. Agree? 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/mz2bGc5eaK">pic.twitter.com/mz2bGc5eaK</a> — talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) <a href="https://twitter.com/talkSPORT/status/1075436515235385345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

'United have now gone from megastore to corner shop'

PSG star Neymar is anticipating Manchester United&nbsp;will have a new playing style under a new manager when they face off in the Champions League last 16.&nbsp; "We know the quality that Manchester United have, and we know that their players have a winning mentality," the Brazilian told <a href="https://en.psg.fr/teams/first-team/content/neymar-jr-very-motivated" target="_blank">PSG's official website.&nbsp;</a> "The coach has changed, and it will be a different playing style; they're in the process of changing things up, but we know the quality they have."

Neymar expects Man Utd to have a different style

New&nbsp;Manchester United manager Ole Gunner Solskjaer&nbsp;has arrived in Manchester at the Lowry hotel.&nbsp; If that name sounds familiar, it's where Jose Mourinho had been living for the last two and a half years.&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">The new Manchester United manager Ole Gunner Solskjaer has landed in Manchester and is at the Lowry Hotel, he is expected at Carrington in the morning where he will meet and begin work with the squad and staff. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/RZbkGmxz4B">pic.twitter.com/RZbkGmxz4B</a>— Shaun Irvine (@_shaunirvine) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shaunirvine/status/1075482474367631360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> No word on whether&nbsp;Solskjaer&nbsp;will slot right into Mou's&nbsp;£816-a-night suite!

Solskjaer arrives ... at the Lowry

Man Utd defender Eric Bailly has joined Jesse Lingard in posting a message of gratitude towards Jose Mourinho&nbsp;on Twitter.&nbsp; Although Mourinho froze&nbsp;Bailly out for a large part of the current campaign, the Ivory Coast international had kind words for&nbsp;his former boss.&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Whatever they may say, I will always be thankful to the person who gave me the chance to make my debut at Old Trafford. Thank you for what you have taught me. Good luck, coach. <a href="https://t.co/Xj2IZJuYxu">pic.twitter.com/Xj2IZJuYxu</a>— Eric Bailly (@ericbailly24) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericbailly24/status/1075474070731452418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bailly continues Mourinho tributes 

There hasn't been much in the way of tributes from Manchester United players for Jose Mourinho, but Jesse Lingard has broken the silence. The England international posted a picture of himself and Mourinho&nbsp;on Twitter with the simple caption: "Thank you for the memories and wisdom". <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Thank you for the memories and wisdom 🙌🏾 <a href="https://t.co/aKRqTRFs8h">pic.twitter.com/aKRqTRFs8h</a> — Jesse Lingard (@JesseLingard) <a href="https://twitter.com/JesseLingard/status/1075471015457775617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Lingard thanks Mourinho on Twitter

Jamie Redknapp&nbsp;has tipped Manchester United to land&nbsp;Tottenham&nbsp;boss Mauricio Pochettino as their next full-time manager “I think they’ll go for him and get him, I do," Redknapp&nbsp;said on Sky Sports on Wednesday.

Redknapp believes Man Utd will land Poch

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjær: "I had to think about myself, how can I do the most damage for the opposition if I come on? I sat there and I studied football games but I didn't exactly analyse their strikers. Instead I'd pay attention to what the defenders and full-backs were doing wrong." <a href="https://t.co/pK8wpxJXpH">pic.twitter.com/pK8wpxJXpH</a>— Mohamed Moallim (@iammoallim) <a href="https://twitter.com/iammoallim/status/1075339986789195777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

That time Solskjaer scored four off the bench!

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Norway PM Erna Solberg has explained to <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkySportsNews</a> why she deleted her Ole Gunnar Solskjær tweet 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mufc</a> <a href="https://t.co/TClGITzHer">pic.twitter.com/TClGITzHer</a>— Paul Gilmour (@skysportspaulg) <a href="https://twitter.com/skysportspaulg/status/1075352868297891841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Norway's PM gets in a cheeky Mourinho dig! 🇳🇴

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">David Beckham on Ole Gunnar Solskjær in 2011: “We’ll see, maybe he will be <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManUtd</a> manager one day” <a href="https://t.co/ZKspFi9wul">pic.twitter.com/ZKspFi9wul</a>— The Man Utd Way (@TheManUtdWay) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheManUtdWay/status/1075376843929337857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Beckham called it back in 2011! 👀👀

A former international team-mate and club rival has weighed in on Solskjaer taking over at Old Trafford.&nbsp; <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Solskjær new manager for Man U. That’s just insane!! Being a Norwegian and having the pleasure of playing with and against him, I am so proud of him! It’s a great opportunity for him as a manager. This shows everything is possible with hard work! I wish him all the best🔝⚽️— John Arne Riise (@JARiiseOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/JARiiseOfficial/status/1075341619560214529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Riise wishes Solskjaer the best

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> So unbelievable happy to see Ole Gunnar Solskjær as the new manager of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a>. So proud of him ✌ — Ronny Johnsen (@JRonnyJohnsen) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRonnyJohnsen/status/1075356457359605760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Ole gets the thumbs up from an old team-mate

Ex-Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has said that he is "immensely proud" of what he achieved at Old Trafford. 🤔 <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/immensely-proud-mourinho-releases-statement-following-manchester-/ktxbbz3q751f18b769rt83nly" target="_blank">Read it in full here...</a>

'Immensely proud' Mourinho releases statement

What can the new Red Devils boss learn from the old one? Quite a lot actually... <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/fao-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-how-not-to-manage-man-utd-by-jose/18grcp25221jd1u30p08ykv2w4" target="_blank">Opta's Duncan Alexander takes a look here.</a>

FAO Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: How not to manage Man Utd, by Jose Mourinho

What Ole was capable of in his playing days... <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Any chance Solskjaer can send himself on if Lukaku is struggling? 😂<a href="https://t.co/kIPgT8v7Mw">pic.twitter.com/kIPgT8v7Mw</a> — Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1075346138654498818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Solskjaer or Lukaku up front: who would you rather have? 🤔

Jose Mourinho is keen to put his stint at Old Trafford behind him. "I keep the good things and I don't speak about anything that happened in the club," he told Sky Sports. "Manchester United has a future without me and I have a future without Manchester United. "It's over, that's me and that's how I've always been. I was always very critical of managers that leave clubs and then they come out and they speak about the details of what happened, who is to blame. That's not me. "Until I get back to football I feel I have to right to live my normal life."

Mourinho has had more to say...

Goal's Man Utd correspondent Kris Voakes has given his take on events at Old Trafford over the last 48 hours. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> 🗣️ "What's happened this week at Manchester United?"<a href="https://twitter.com/krisvoakes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@krisvoakes</a> breaks down <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MourinhoOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MourinhoOut</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SolskjaerIn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SolskjaerIn</a> 🔴 <a href="https://t.co/MA55uU5yLK">pic.twitter.com/MA55uU5yLK</a> — Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1075385688512548864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Voakes on Mourinho

Ex-Manchester United defender Jaap Stam says that Mauricio Pochettino should be the man the Red Devils turn to on a full-time basis once Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's caretaker role is over. "He's good in building a team, plays attractive football, playing out from the back to score goals and win games. I would say that's my choice." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/pochettino-the-best-choice-for-united-says-stam-as-search/1uuwt3wiqgd6q1e24gdxfvoopm" target="_blank">Get his full quotes here!</a>

Stam talks up Pochettino for United role

Former Manchester United defender Henning Berg has said that Solskjaer's previous Premier League stint in charge of Cardiff should be discounted. The Norweigian struggled with the Blue Birds and oversaw their relegation to the Championship in 2014. "I look at [Cardiff] as an experience for him, where he has tested himself in this league, but with a team that is fighting relegation and not a team that is looking to compete at the other end of the table," Berg told&nbsp;Sky Sports. "Those are two completely different things. When you have players winning one game out of four, compared to teams that are supposed to win three games out of four, the mentality is completely different. I don't think that will have too much impact on the job he does at United now." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/solskjaer-to-united-cardiff-stint-not-relevant-to-old/1eoejswc75vuu1k0r960rgext8" target="_blank">Get his full quotes here!</a>

Berg: Man Utd fans should not worry about Cardiff stint

Sacked on Tuesday, Jose Mourinho has given his first response to the media following his departure from Manchester United. The Portuguese was apparently none too pleased with the situation. "I have nothing to say," he told the media. <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/i-have-nothing-to-say-mourinho-keeping-quiet-after-man-utd/1ke2ryar7pxig1gp1wcmt9pzce" target="_blank">Get the full story here!</a>

Jose Mourinho has given his response

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><a href="https://t.co/d2nSdcQKGQ">pic.twitter.com/d2nSdcQKGQ</a>— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) <a href="https://twitter.com/rioferdy5/status/1075385299486851073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rio on the time he was burned by Solskjaer 🔥

The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) have welcomed the appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but urged the club to make "big structural changes". In a <a href="https://www.imust.org.uk/Blog/Entry/must-response-to-appointment-of-ole-gunnar-solskjaer" target="_blank">statement</a> posted on their website, MUST praised Solskjaer and said that he was "just the man" to replace Jose Mourinho. MUST Statement "United need a lift and our ultimate super-sub, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, is just the man for the job. He’s been a long-term backer of fans and a patron of MUST, so we know he understands our support and what we are looking for from a manager. &nbsp; "Whilst Ole is at the helm, the club needs to make the big structural changes to equip us to compete in modern football. The Club must put football expertise in charge of football decisions, especially in respect of selection of the next manager and player transfers.&nbsp; &nbsp; "Manchester United fans have shown phenomenal support to the team through the recent difficult period. We know all fans will continue to back the team and we expect to see the players giving their all for the Club and the supporters. We know Ole will."

'Man Utd need to make big structural changes'

Newly-appointed&nbsp;Manchester United&nbsp;first-team coach Mike Phelan has reaffirmed that he will remain committed to A-League outfit Central Coast Mariners as their sporting director after the club endorsed his return to Old Trafford following a five-year absence. “Taking on a temporary coaching role at Manchester United is extremely exciting,” Phelan stated. “It’s also a really positive step for the Mariners to have a direct link with Manchester United as I will continue my role as sporting director. “I’m still a Mariner. I’ve put something in place that I want to see through. This might be a small distraction, but it’s with one of the biggest clubs in the world that I simply couldn’t turn down." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/new-man-utd-coach-phelan-to-juggle-two-roles-as-he-remains/2b6r0yngozuj1wy1lo6ww489d" target="_blank">Read the story in full!</a>

Phelan to juggle Man Utd and Mariners roles 🤹‍♂️

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam says that he is surprised at the appointment of his ex team-mate&nbsp;Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as Red Devils boss. Stam, who left his job as Reading manager in March of this year, also indicated that he was also available for the role. "It’s good for him. He’s a legend at United. I was quite surprised they were signing Ole, I didn’t know they were going to sign someone until the end of the season," Stam told <a href="https://www.skysports.com/" target="_blank">Sky Sports</a>. “I’m free as well, it would have been nice. I’m sure I could have done something over there as well – it’s always a matter of who you’re going to pick but hopefully they don’t forget about me!&nbsp;

Stam 'quite surprised' by Solskjaer appointment

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">📅 December 19, 1998 - Man Utd's last loss of the season as they go on to win the treble 📅 December 19, 2018 - Man Utd appoint 98-99 hero Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager <a href="https://t.co/09pq1EvlNE">pic.twitter.com/09pq1EvlNE</a>— Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1075335479317401602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

December 19, a good omen? 👀

Who remembers the time Solskjaer was asked about a Liverpool title challenge? <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">The time Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was asked what he thought of Liverpool's title challenge 🤣🤣🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/ogytBm6C9q">pic.twitter.com/ogytBm6C9q</a>— Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) <a href="https://twitter.com/SoccerAM/status/1075332155826429952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Post-match interviews should be interesting! 📺

Ed Woodward and Manchester United fans might have high hopes for Solskjaer, but his managerial record in English football leaves plenty to be desired. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">🔵 Solskjaer's record at Cardiff City: Played: 30 Won: 9 Drew: 5 Lost: 16 Scored: 34 Conceded: 57 Where will Man United finish under him this season? 💭 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/3Xq9FbeBuC">pic.twitter.com/3Xq9FbeBuC</a>— Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/1075170448806158337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Solskjaer's Cardiff City record is... not great

What of the man who Solskjaer is replacing? Goal's Mark Doyle reckons that Jose Mourinho's Manchester United failure means&nbsp;is finished at the highest level. "The problem is, though, Mourinho is no longer winning major titles himself, having claimed just one league (at Chelsea) and no Champions Leagues&nbsp;in the past five years, after seven leagues and two Champions Leagues&nbsp;in the preceding decade," writes Doyle. "He is no longer even a defensive mastermind. His United side had already conceded more goals this season than they had during the entirety of the 2017-18 campaign. "And when one takes away his defensive nous, or that once remarkable ability to create a unifying siege mentality at club, there really is nothing left but the fearful, dour football we again saw at Anfield at the weekend. "So, who would want him now? Certainly, none of Europe's elite." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/not-so-special-anymore-antiquated-mourinho-finished-at-the/7azyg69n1ltj1ndgrngw4lkfx" target="_blank">Read the full piece here.</a>

Is Mourinho finished at the top level? 👎

One of Solskjaer's tasks in the new year will be to mastermind a Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain. With the likes of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani in the PSG ranks, that is a daunting prospect. However, Thiago Silva remains wary of the Red Devils, particularly now that they have changed coach. "Many people think that the draw is good because Manchester are&nbsp;not playing well, but they still a very good team," said Silva. "They have a history in football, experienced players, and with the change of coach, they will try to push a little more. But we are very motivated too." <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/man-utd-are-still-a-very-good-team-thiago-wary-of-psgs-champions-/1fgvpiqwqxc5i1p3gc44ll84f9" target="_blank">Read the full story!</a>

'United are still a very good team'

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the 'Baby-faced Assassin', is associated with a lot of good memories for Manchester United fans He scored the winning goal in the 1999 Champions League final and his habit of getting crucial strikes after coming off the bench during 'Fergie Time' earned him the affectionate moniker, 'super-sub'. Check out some of those moments below! <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is 🔙 Happy, <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManUtd</a> fans? <a href="https://t.co/A9u9W8Ovbc">pic.twitter.com/A9u9W8Ovbc</a>— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1075340554320384000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Can Solskjaer conjure more happy memories?

We have a feeling this one will be ringing out at Old Trafford again soon enough. In case you don't know it, here are the lyrics... but be warned, certain language may offend! (To the tune of 'You Are My Sunshine') You are my Solskjaer, My Ole Solskjaer, You make me happy, When skies are grey, Alan Shearer, Was f*cking dearer, So please don't take, My Solskjaer away... <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/manchester-united-chants-lyrics-videos-most-popular-old-trafford-/6gg2ihh94e11anhtzmntwscu" target="_blank">Click here to see more Manchester United songs and chants!</a>

What's the Solskjaer chant? 🎵

Former Red Devils David Beckham and Rio Ferdinand are among those wish Solskjaer well in his new role as Man United boss. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's former Manchester United team-mates are beginning to welcome him back to the club. Here are Rio Ferdinand and David Beckham on Instagram...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/srRJcxffNQ">pic.twitter.com/srRJcxffNQ</a>— Omnisport (@OmnisportNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmnisportNews/status/1075342600914251777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/welcome-back-solskjaers-return-to-man-utd-as-interim-manager/l2tq9weajxnf1rjarmmkw141w" target="_blank">Check out all the reaction here.</a>

'Welcome back!' - Solskjaer's return to Man Utd a 'great decision' ⭐️

The Norwegian will get straight down to business and, as fate would have it, his first game in charge comes against his former club, Cardiff City. Here are Solskjaer's first five games in the hotseat: ⚽️ December 22 - Cardiff City (away)&nbsp; ⚽️ December 26 - Huddersfield (home) ⚽️ December 30 - Bournemouth (home) ⚽️ January 2 - Newcastle United (away) ⚽️ January 5 - Reading (home) As first games go, that isn't too bad, but things get tougher in the new year...

Solskjaer's first games as Man Utd boss

Interestingly, Solskjaer has <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/next-manchester-united-manager-odds-solskjaer-favourite-for-full-/fs2a8qevx7km1doh5er6cr2et" target="_blank">now become the favourite</a> to take the Manchester United job on a permanent basis - ahead of former frontrunners Mauricio Pochettino and Zinedine Zidane.&nbsp; That will obviously depend on how he fares in the coming months and&nbsp;he has a big job on his hands <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/news/premier-league-betting-solskjaer-141-to-lead-manchester/1xnk88qaryq6310o5prrxd14es" target="_blank">to secure a top-four finish</a>.

Solskjaer favourite for permanent job ahead of Poch & Zidane

When you need a Brexit-themed take, Gary Lineker is your only man. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Norway-plus option. <a href="https://t.co/gOpZs8XkZg">https://t.co/gOpZs8XkZg</a>— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1075328461047238656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> So, does that mean United will or won't tumble out of Europe? 🤔

Man Utd go for 'Norway-plus option' 👀

Romelu Lukaku hasn't enjoyed the best of seasons in front of goal, but perhaps Solskjaer can give him a few pointers. Starting with this finish against Lille... <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Everyone remembers Solskjær for the 1999 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> final, but what about this finish against Lille... 🤩🤩🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManUtd</a> <a href="https://t.co/rzJ3O6APLB">pic.twitter.com/rzJ3O6APLB</a>— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1075322534399234048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Can Solskjaer get Lukaku firing again?

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">This is (a temporary) Moyes all over again, isn’t it? A romantic appointment based on the reasoning of “we’re United, it’ll be fine”. I don’t doubt that Pochettino will come in in the summer, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they had to replace Solskjaer before that as well— Sam Lee (@Sammy_Goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sammy_Goal/status/1075325412904001536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async="async" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Goal's Manchester City correspondent Sam Lee isn't convinced by Solskjaer.