Manchester United are poised for a pivotal weekend as discussions intensify over bringing former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back to the club in a temporary capacity. The Norwegian is scheduled for face-to-face talks with CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox on Saturday, January 10th, 2026.
Managerial Decision Imminent
The Red Devils hierarchy is seeking a steady hand to guide the team until the end of the season following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. This interim appointment is viewed as a strategy to allow the club time to secure the right permanent manager in the summer. Solskjaer, 52, is a leading candidate, offering extensive experience from his previous stint at Old Trafford.
However, he is not the only name in the frame. Michael Carrick, who served as Solskjaer's assistant during his prior reign, is also under consideration for the caretaker role. A final decision from the United chiefs is expected imminently.
Immediate Boost for Incoming Boss
Whoever takes the helm at the Theatre of Dreams is set to receive a significant and timely lift. Forward Bryan Mbeumo is due to return to the club within the next week after Cameroon's exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. The £71 million summer signing from Brentford was a standout performer in the first half of the campaign and his comeback is a major positive.
His return could be perfectly timed for the Manchester derby against City on Saturday, January 17th. This high-stakes clash could potentially be the first match in charge for the new interim manager, should they be appointed in time.
AFCON Impact on Squad Availability
While Mbeumo's return is confirmed, the availability of other key players remains uncertain due to the ongoing AFCON tournament. Noussair Mazraoui will stay with Morocco for at least one more match following their quarter-final victory over Cameroon.
All eyes will be on Amad and Ivory Coast as they face Egypt in their own quarter-final on Saturday night. The 23-year-old winger has been in scintillating form for his nation, contributing three goals and an assist in just four appearances. His continued involvement in the tournament would delay his return to Carrington.
All three players will definitely miss United's FA Cup fourth-round tie against Brighton this weekend. Interim coach Darren Fletcher will take charge for a second time, having overseen a 2-2 draw with Burnley in midweek.
FA Cup Focus and Fletcher's Interim Stint
Ahead of the Brighton match, Fletcher emphasised the importance of the FA Cup, a competition United won just two years ago. "It’s an amazing competition, the first trophy I won as a player, it is a special tournament," he stated. "The FA Cup, it’s a trophy we should be vying to win."
A victory and progression to the next round would be an ideal way for Fletcher to potentially conclude his brief interim duties, paving the way for the new caretaker manager. With exits from European competition and the Carabao Cup, the FA Cup represents the club's most likely path to silverware this season.
The club has also been buoyed by the return from injury of key figures like Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, who featured in the draw at Burnley. Their presence, combined with the impending return of Mbeumo, offers a glimmer of optimism during a period of significant transition at Old Trafford.
