Darren Fletcher has declared himself ready to step into the Manchester United hotseat permanently, even as the club continues discussions with former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about a sensational interim return.
Fletcher's Confident Stance Amid Managerial Uncertainty
The former United midfielder, who has been in caretaker charge since Ruben Amorim's sacking earlier this month, oversaw a 2-2 draw with Burnley in his first game. He is set to lead the team in their FA Cup third-round clash against Brighton this Sunday, a match that could potentially be his last in temporary command.
"I've always been quite relaxed about my future," Fletcher stated. "I've enjoyed it, I really have. I've tried to relish it. I think I'm quite well prepared. I've always tried to prepare myself to be a manager in the future."
He emphasised that while management was a long-term ambition, he was content with any outcome. "It's not something I'm saying I'm desperate to do... But if it doesn't, I'll be more than comfortable with that. If it means I remain as the under-18s coach, I'm really happy."
Solskjaer in Frame for Shock Old Trafford Comeback
Despite Fletcher's readiness, United chiefs held talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Saturday regarding the Norwegian leading the team for the remainder of the season. Solskjaer, a club legend as a player, previously managed United from December 2018 to November 2021.
While these talks progress, the club has not definitively ruled out extending Fletcher's stay as caretaker, leaving the managerial situation in a state of flux as the January window unfolds.
Long-Term Vision: World Cup Bosses on United's Radar
Regardless of who steers the ship for the rest of the campaign, the United hierarchy is already casting its net wide for a permanent appointment next summer. Several managers who will be at the 2026 World Cup are on a shortlist.
Key targets include England's Thomas Tuchel, Brazil's Carlo Ancelotti, and the USA's Mauricio Pochettino. Crucially, all three see their current international contracts expire at the conclusion of the tournament, potentially facilitating a move to club football.
When questioned about the club's future direction, Fletcher deferred to the decision-makers. "It's not my decision, and ultimately, the club need to do what they think is best... They need to know what their plan is going forward for the success of Manchester United and I'm sure they'll do that."
The coming days are set to bring clarity to the immediate dugout situation, but the search for a long-term successor to restore United to the pinnacle of English and European football appears to be firmly underway.
