Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has finally confirmed that he has taken up a new role in football almost two years after his sacking from the club.
Solskjaer, who initially arrived as caretaker manager before his appointment was made permanent, was dismissed from United in November 2021 after a poor start to the season.
The 50-year-old Norwegian struggled in the 2021-22 campaign and United were left languishing in seventh place in the Premier League table at the time of his sacking.
A thumping 4-1 defeat for United at Vicarage Road against Watford sealed Solskjaer’s fate, with Michael Carrick subsequently stepping in as caretaker manager before Ralf Rangnick’s arrival.
Solskjaer admitted he was “honoured and privileged” to have taken charge at the club and said it was the right “time for me to step aside” after the Watford defeat.
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Solskjaer on his new role
Solskjaer had not returned to football management following his departure from Old Trafford, despite the Norwegian Football Federation contacting him about a vacancy.
Now, the former United boss has become a UEFA technical observer and outlined the “different perspective” his new position offers him that a managerial role did not.
“I’m doing a lot of coaching, four times per week, and we have three teams,” Solskjaer told The Athletic.
“I’m helping the kids, who enjoy it. You see a different side to football, the grassroots — except it’s all plastic pitches here. You see the brightness in their eyes, they listen to you, they want to learn.
“But you start to miss it [professional football] when you see the games, either in person or on television. Since I left United, I’ve travelled around as a fan with my kids, going to places like Napoli, Milan and Dortmund to experience games. We loved it.
“My role with UEFA means watching Champions League matches in person. I can watch teams from a different perspective than being a manager: analyse them, solve problems, see how both teams will try to hurt each other.
“Then I’m going to the east coast of the United States in a few weeks to see Wayne Rooney and David Beckham, see a few games and see what’s what.”
Solskjaer still interested in management
Despite taking up his new role at UEFA, Solskjaer has refused to rule out a return to management and is keen for another run so long as the ‘right’ offer comes along.
The former United star revealed that he had received offers from Saudi Arabia, but he explained why he made the decision to not take up a role in the Middle East.
“I’ve had offers [to return]. Most recently, two from Saudi Arabia,” Solskjaer added.
“My best mate, who is also my agent, sifts through them. If you’ve managed Man United, you put your own criteria about what you want to work with.
“I love England and the Premier League. Even the Championship feels stronger than ever, but I don’t feel bound to England.
“Maybe a different challenge where I need to experience a new culture and learn a new language.
“The DNA and identity of the club are important, a club where I can be the best me. It has to be a match.
“Maybe I made the wrong decision to go to Cardiff, for example, where there was a clash of identities and styles.
“What I miss most is working with good people, coming in every day, discussing football and putting a plan together for the next game.
“It’s not just about formations, but creating a culture where the staff enjoy their job and building a team together.”
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