The real reason ex-United boss was at surprise PL game before manager’s sacking – report

Former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was in attendance at Molineux on Saturday for Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Ipswich Town.

Solskjaer has been out of work since he departed United in November 2021. He took charge of 168 games during his time in the Old Trafford dugout.

He has been linked to several managerial roles but nothing has materialised yet. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Norwegian was contacted by Molde to make a return to the club but he turned them down.

Eyebrows were raised when Solskjaer watched from the stands as Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich beat Wolves 2-1. The result left Wolves in 19th place in the Premier League table, having lost their last four matches.

This latest setback marked the end of Gary O’Neil’s tenure as Wolves manager, with his sacking confirmed on Sunday morning.

BREAKING: Wolves sack head coach Gary O’Neil 🚨 pic.twitter.com/P38AxDJnEf

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 15, 2024

Solskjaer’s presence at Molineux sparked speculation that he was in the mix to replace O’Neil.

However, according to The Daily Mail, there was another reason why the United legend was in West Midlands.

The newspaper reveals, “Mail Sport understands that the real reason behind Solskjaer’s trip to Wolverhampton was that he had been keen to catch up with Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, who previously worked as a coach under the Norwegian at Old Trafford.”

“Solskjaer is still close friends with McKenna, as well as Ipswich coach Martyn Pert – who also used to work with him at United.”

“There were also suggestions on social media that Solskjaer had wanted to attend Saturday’s game, in part, because one of his sons is an Ipswich fan.”

David Ornstein of The Athletic notes that Wolves have already identified their preferred replacement for O’Neil and it’s not Solskajer.

It’s understood that Wolves are working on a deal to appoint Vitor Pereira as their new head coach.

Ornstein explains that Wolves are ready to pay the release clause in Pereira’s contract with Saudi Pro League outfit Al Shabab.


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

Lewis-Skelly: Why United have a shot at signing Arsenal youngster

Manchester United are exploring the possibility of signing Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly, as per reports. The Red Devils are in the market for a new left-back as they look to add much-needed width and creativity to their left flank, having failed to offload Marcus Rashford and bring in a new left winger. As such, the focus

Aurelien Tchouameni close to leaving Real Madrid as Man United lie in wait

Manchester United’s patience could be about to be rewarded if reports emerging from Spain are to be believed. The Red Devils have already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to strengthen their engine room, with the Brazilian impressing during pre-season. However, United still lack that out-and-out defensive midfielder, which explains why they were interested in

Juventus Douglas Luiz makes transfer stance clear amid Man United links

Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz has clarified his stance on his future amid suggestions that he could be headed to Manchester United. Dream move United are on the hunt for a third midfield signing after securing the services of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively. Michael Carrick’s side are said to

Lewis Hall: United planning imminent talks with Newcastle

Manchester United appear focused on signing a new left-back to provide backup to Luke Shaw ahead of the new campaign. The Englishman started every Premier League game last season, but given his injury record, INEOS are right to be wary. This explains their interest in Newcastle’s Lewis Hall. A pursuit had slowed down as the

Altay Bayindir closing in on shock move to Celta Vigo

Manchester United claimed their second win of pre-season on Saturday as the Red Devils came back from a goal down to clinch a 2-1 victory against Atletico Madrid at the Strawberry Arena. Amad, who returned to pre-season training a couple of days ago, was reinstated into the starting line-up by Michael Carrick. The Ivorian impressed
spot_imgspot_img