The Norwegian left a legend despite his failed managerial spell, one that has actually aged rather well considering how unconvincing they have been in the 24 months since his departure.
United's success under Solskjaer was tempered by the reality that much of it occurred behind closed doors, and while there were a number of genuine impressive triumphs, they wilted when stadiums were full again. A lot of recent revisionism has overlooked just how bad things were by the end.
Solskjaer's side showed signs of progress to finish third in the league in 2019-2020 and second the following season but their form imploded in the lead-up to his sacking. It is a feeling Erik ten Hag knows all too well.
He, like Solskjaer, oversaw progress during his first full campaign in charge, but it has taken even less time for the cracks to show and serious questions to be asked about his long-term suitability for the role.
This story is from the November 22, 2023 edition of Manchester Evening News.
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This story is from the November 22, 2023 edition of Manchester Evening News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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