Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been a revelation at Manchester United, and his case for getting the job on a permanent basis seems to strengthen each week. While it was presumed he would be a stopgap until a big name could be recruited at the end of the season, it would now be a surprise if the Norwegian did not stick around for longer.
That is certainly the opinion of United legend Gary Neville. Neville was a teammate for Solskjaer for many years, but even he is surprised by the success he has experienced since his return to Old Trafford. Speaking to Norwegian TV station Viasport Fotball, he said he thinks Solskjaer could be confirmed as the permanent boss as soon as the upcoming international break:
.@GNev2: – I'll be surprised if Ole Gunnar Solskjær is not awarded the [permanent manager] job during the international break.
(@JanAageFjortoft) https://t.co/NFNpYZz6hd— Viaplay Fotball (@ViaplayFotball) March 6, 2019
I can't believe what's happened. When he first came in, I thought it would be to reconnect the club with the fans and players, to get everybody happy. To be someone the club could rely on to give information to the boardroom about what the players are like, and then they would appoint the best manager in the world.
Ole's results are Premier League title winning results. The for guide says it all. The performances have been very good, the fans are loving, and it's been a sensational three months. I think that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be given the job.
The right time for me was always mid-March to the end of March, that's when the international break is. I would be surprised if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is not awarded the job during the international break in the next couple of weeks.
You couldn't really argue that he doesn't deserve it, but if United would be willing to commit at this early stage remains to be seen. Despite his spectacular form, they may prefer to wait and revisit the situation at the end of the season, and check on the availability (or otherwise) of a certain Spurs manager.
Even if Pochettino does display a willingness to move to Manchester, the board may have a riot on their hands if Ole is not at the wheel next season.
