A major decision looms for Manchester United, as sources reveal the club aims to clarify its interim leadership for the remainder of the season early next week.
With the recent dismissal of head coach Ruben Amorim, United finds itself in a critical juncture, seeking a temporary manager to steer the team through the final five months of the campaign.
Darren Fletcher, who stepped in as an interim solution for the 2-2 draw against Burnley, will once again lead the team for the upcoming FA Cup tie against Brighton on Sunday.
United has been in talks with several candidates, including former players Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Michael Carrick, and Ruud van Nistelrooy. Solskjaer is scheduled for a face-to-face meeting with CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox on Saturday, while a meeting with Carrick has already occurred.
But here's where it gets controversial... Sources indicate that Van Nistelrooy, who previously served as an interim for four games last season, remains a contender. However, sources close to the Dutchman suggest he believes he's not the top choice.
Fletcher, according to United sources, has impressed the leadership team with his performance since taking over after Amorim's departure. His attacking approach against Burnley, which saw United take 30 shots and 10 on target, has earned him internal praise.
And this is the part most people miss... One of the key considerations for potentially appointing Solskjaer until the end of the season is the composition of his backroom staff. In his previous role as manager between December 2018 and November 2021, Solskjaer relied on support from Carrick, Mike Phelan, and Kieran McKenna on the training ground.
With Amorim's departure, his entire team also left, leaving Fletcher to assemble a staff of Under-21 coaches Travis Binnion and Alan Wright, along with former teammate Jonny Evans, ahead of the Burnley match.
United's next challenge after the cup tie is the highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford on January 17.
So, who will be the interim boss? Will it be a familiar face from United's past, or someone new? And what impact will this decision have on the team's performance?
What are your thoughts on this interim manager dilemma? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below!
