Manchester United appointed fan favourite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their new manager. The Norwegian has been caretaker boss at Old Trafford since the sacking of Jose Mourinho. Results and form have improved so much that his appointment was inevitable.
Fan Favourite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Appointed Red Devil’s Manager
Caretaker Manager
Club legend Solskjaer, who scored 126 goals in 11 years, was appointed caretaker manager on December 19th. It was reported at the time that he was “on loan” from Norwegian side Molde until the end of the season.
However, it has come to light recently that the only contract Solskjaer has, is with United. His contract at Molde had expired and although the club had hoped he would sign a new deal, a contract was not signed.
Ole’s at the wheel! We can confirm that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been appointed as #MUFC manager.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 28, 2019
Instant Impact
Few would have expected the impact 46-year-old Solskjaer would make. With a squad seemingly short on confidence and the title out of reach, fans were more hopeful than expectant. This, however, would soon change.
Eight straight victories and nine undefeated saw United’s new boss collect the January Manager of the Month award. By the end of February, he oversaw a record eight consecutive away victories. The first taste of defeat also came during the month. Paris Saint-Germain inflicted a two-nil defeat in the Champions League at Old Trafford.
Many believed United were now out of the competition. A trip to Paris, and two goals behind made progress almost impossible.
Miracle in Paris
Solskjaer and his depleted United side produced the shock of the tournament. The Red Devil’s produced an outstanding performance; however, with little time to spare, United led 2-1, but it appeared that PSG would hold on. Enter VAR.
A stoppage-time penalty given after the referee consulted VAR gave United their chance. Marcus Rashford dispatched the penalty to give Solskjaer and his side a historic victory. United progressed on away goals. It made them the first team in the history of the European Cup to advance after losing the first leg at home by two goals or more.
Record Speaks for Itself
Solskjaer’s record at Old Trafford has been nothing short of excellent. 14 wins in 18 games and just two defeats, made him a certainty to be given the job full-time.
United are back in the top four of the Premier League and have Champions League and FA Cup quarterfinals to look forward to. Plus, if Solskjaer can maintain anything like the form United have shown since his arrival, the good times will soon be back in the red half of Manchester.
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