Manchester United's Unbeaten Streak and Solskjaer's Legacy
Manchester United's stoppage-time equalizer against Tottenham Hotspur has extended their unbeaten run to five games.
The team currently sits in seventh place in the Premier League, trailing third-placed Chelsea by two points.
Following two challenging seasons, there is a renewed sense of optimism at Old Trafford, suggesting that United may be on the right path.
Remarkably, it has been just over four years since they finished second under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, scoring 73 goals—the highest tally in a single season since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.
During the early stages of the 2021-22 season, they were at the top of the league with three wins and a draw from their first four matches.
Is it time to reconsider Solskjaer's tenure as Manchester United's manager?
‘Far Better Than Given Credit For’
There exists a harsh narrative surrounding Solskjaer, suggesting that his appointment as interim manager following Jose Mourinho's dismissal in December 2018 was a stroke of luck, stemming from his previous spells at Molde and Cardiff.
Critics argue that he should never have been given the permanent role, let alone an extension, and that his limitations were exposed when he lost his job after a dismal 4-1 defeat at Watford, part of a string of poor results that included a 5-0 home loss to Liverpool.
However, is this assessment merely highlighting the negatives?
Those involved in Solskjaer's appointment and subsequent dismissal offer a more favorable perspective.
"He is absolutely far better than many people give him credit for," stated a source who observed Solskjaer closely during his nearly three-year tenure.
Following Mourinho's exit, executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward brought Solskjaer back to the club where he had previously enjoyed success as a player and coach, with a straightforward mandate: restore the joy at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer instinctively embraced this challenge.
Upon returning to the Carrington training ground, he immediately sought out beloved receptionist Kath Phipps, greeting her with a hug, a kiss, and her favorite chocolates.
He made an unexpected appearance at the staff Christmas party, receiving a reception akin to that of a celebrity.
His positive influence extended beyond these moments.
By nature, Solskjaer is an optimistic individual.
"An optimist to the limit," remarked a former colleague. "He sees good in everything. It was the little things, like saying 'good morning, how are you doing?'—just being human. Everything had been so downcast and flat. He opened the door for people to smile again."
While Solskjaer was not attempting to recreate the Ferguson era, he believed that certain aspects of the Scot's regime could be adapted to the modern game.
He emphasized standards, reinstating a dress code for away trips that included blazers and ties. The Carrington environment became more inclusive, and access to the club canteen was expanded. This shift in atmosphere contributed to a lighter and more positive mood, bolstered by an impressive run of eight consecutive wins at the start of his reign, which ultimately led to 14 victories, two draws, and just one defeat in his first 17 matches.
That lone defeat was avenged with a memorable 2-1 victory over Paris St-Germain, thanks to Marcus Rashford's stoppage-time penalty—a highlight in the club's European history, allowing them to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for only the second time since their 2011 final loss to Barcelona.
In this context, Solskjaer was appointed as permanent manager, signing a three-year contract.
Critics argue this decision was misguided.
However, those involved in the negotiations maintain otherwise.
"People spoke about his philosophy, but training was led by Kieran [McKenna]," an insider shared. "Ole was present but primarily observed the coaching. In that regard, his methods resembled those of Carlo Ancelotti. He excelled in man-management; the culture was remarkable. He was a confidant, and the players were eager to play for him, embracing a style of football that resonated with everyone."
This was evident on the pitch. After finishing sixth in his first season, United secured third and second place in Solskjaer's subsequent two campaigns—the highest consecutive league finishes since Ferguson's retirement. They reached five semi-finals out of six in cup competitions.
However, they failed to secure any trophies. The closest they came was a penalty shootout loss to Villarreal in the 2021 Europa League final, where goalkeeper David de Gea's missed penalty proved decisive.
The absence of silverware became a significant issue.
"It was like an albatross he carried," remarked the insider. "Especially in his second full year, people kept questioning, 'Will he win something?'"
Despite this, there was internal belief in Solskjaer and his staff. In July 2021, he received a contract extension until 2024, with Woodward stating that the foundations for long-term success were now established.
The return of Cristiano Ronaldo, alongside high-profile signings like Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, initially elevated spirits. Ronaldo scored twice on his second debut against Newcastle, propelling Manchester United to the top of the Premier League amid a euphoric atmosphere.
However, this optimism proved to be a false dawn.
According to BBC Sport, the United dressing room was largely excited by Ronaldo's arrival. Solskjaer believed that the veteran forward would set high standards and demonstrate to his teammates what was necessary to succeed at the highest level.
Ferguson wanted him back, Woodward wanted him, and the fans were eager for his return.
"The issue was that the way Ole and Kieran structured the team couldn't accommodate too many players who didn't track back," noted a dressing room source. "It required a system that emphasized pressing and stamina. While it was acceptable to adjust the system for a player of Ronaldo's caliber, Ole struggled to make it work. Although Ronaldo was impactful, his arrival disrupted the system Solskjaer had been developing for over two years."
The situation deteriorated rapidly, resulting in six defeats in 11 games over two months, including a shocking home loss to Liverpool. The defeat at Watford, where United conceded twice in stoppage time, marked the end of Solskjaer's tenure.
Some believe this outcome was unjust.
"That match was chaotic," said the dressing room source. "The scoreline suggested that everything had gone wrong. It hadn’t, but that’s when you need support. The usual rumors about 'losing the dressing room' began circulating. He never truly lost it; he may have lost a couple of players, but they were typically those not in the starting lineup."
Solskjaer privately recognized that his time was coming to an end, culminating in a brief and emotional meeting with Woodward the following morning.
"Perhaps Ole could have resolved the issues eventually, but he didn’t in those initial months, and the club was heading in a negative direction," remarked someone familiar with the decision-making process.