Ole Gunnar Solskjaer linked with shock first manager role since Manchester United sacking

Manchester United's former manager and legendary centre-forward Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been linked with a surprise return to coaching with the Swedish national team.

Solskjaer took charge at Old Trafford initially on a caretaker basis following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in 2018. This period brought huge success as United won 14 of the Norwegian's 19 matches in charge.

Such form earned Solskjaer the managerial position on a permanent basis but after two-and-a-half years and 149 matches, club and manager parted ways following a thumping 4-1 loss to Watford. Unsurprisingly, the manner of his sacking has led to the 50-year-old taking a back seat from first-team football ever since.

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However, the ex-striker is now being linked with a return to management but this time on the international stage. Fotbollskanalen reports the Swedish FA contacted Solskjaer earlier this winter to discuss the vacancy ahead of EURO 2024.

It is claimed the Norwegian 'was interested in meeting', although his chances of completing a switch to the Scandinavian country have been considerably hindered as Tony Gustavsson and Olof Mellberg are thought to be the frontrunners under consideration. Back in September, Solskjaer spoke to The Athletic where he mentioned he was starting a new job as a UEFA technical observer.

Speaking on returning to management, Solskjaer added: "Yes, and I’ve had offers. Most recently, two from Saudi Arabia. My best mate, who is also my agent, sifts through them. If you’ve managed Man United, you put your own criteria about what you want to work with.

"I love England and the Premier League. Even the Championship feels