Solskjaer wanted £32m centre-back at Man Utd in 2019 – he’s now a striker who netted five in 34 minutes on club debut

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign at Manchester United was one of the most exciting recent times as a Red Devils supporter.

Manchester United’s side under the Norwegian just seemed to click at times – and that resulted in some fantastic spectacles.

The likes of Edinson Cavani, Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes provided Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s side with attacking flair and most importantly – goals.

But they were a little shabby at the back. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof formed a formidable partnership at times – but couldn’t stop United from conceding 32 goals in Solksjaer’s first 21 games at the helm.

There was always speculation of fresh blood being brought in to replace them in the centre of defence – including one rumour in 2019 that never quite formulated at Old Trafford.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted Kostas Manolas for Man Utd in 2019

Reports back in 2019 suggested that Manchester United were interested in Roma defender Kostas Manolas.

The Metro reported that Solskjaer was keen on Manolas’ signature, and was willing to fork out the £32m for the then 27-year-old.

The feeling was also allegedly mutual with that of the former Greece international, who stated that he would never rule a move out to a ‘big club’ like United.

Speaking to Sport 24 back in 2018, he said: “It’s only natural you want to play for the biggest clubs, like Barcelona, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

“I think I could make the difference anywhere I went, even at Barcelona – although I have never spoken to them.”

With hindsight in our favour – we know this never came to fruition, and instead, Manolas went on to achieve success with Roma and Napoli in the Serie A.

But fast-forward six years on, and you won’t believe where Manolas is now.

Kostas Manolas scores five as a striker for Pannaxiakos

Yes – you read that right. Manolas has a new club and seemingly a new position – which he thrived in on his debut.

After retiring professionally, Manolas decided to lace up for his local side Pannaxiakos, who play non-league football in Greece.

The ex-Roma man had a return to his boyhood club to remember, netting five times in 34 minutes while playing as a striker. He was then subbed off a minute later. Wonder why?

Whilst he will always be remembered for THAT goal against Barcelona in the Stadio Olimpico – this will have been one of his more prolific showings on a football pitch.