Three Things Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Must Do To Save His Manchester United Job

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has yet again found his managerial career at Manchester United at stake. But unless he implements some big changes, the gaffer may not escape the sack this time around.

The Red Devils have won just 3 out of their last 9 matches across all competitions after what seemed like a dream start to the campaign. Solskjaer’s future is up in the air yet again with the pressure on him at an all-time high.

What’s perplexing is the fact that the Norwegian does not seem to be making any significant change in his approach despite things falling apart right before his eyes. A time for change has never been more perfect consequently.

Here are three things the United boss should do to turn things around:

1. Implement a Defensive Reshuffle

Though Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw started off the season impressively as they carried on their Euro 2020 form, they have gotten complacent. The defensive duo seem to be hungover from the Euros campaign and the manager needs to send a message that no player is undroppable.

With the return of Raphael Varane around the corner, pairing him up with Alex Telles on the left flank could be an option the former Cardiff City boss can consider.

 

2. Tighten Up the Midfield

Most casual observers can agree that the Mancunians lack cohesion and allow too much space for the opponents in midfield no matter who starts in the middle of the park. The issue is clear – the problem is with the setup, not the personnel.

Bruno Fernandes needs to be more positionally disciplined and the players supporting him from midfield need to press more efficiently. A perfect example would be their recent loss to Liverpool and last season’s 6-1 hammering against Tottenham Hotspur; studying these games and doing the opposite can be a start.

 

3. Bring In Experienced Backroom Staff

As talented as they are, Kieran McKenna and Michael Carrick are not exactly seasoned coaches. They often fail to support the head coach well when things go south.

If Solskjaer does remain past the upcoming international break, the Old Trafford outfit need to add experience to his supporting cast. The former Red Devil may not be a perfect coach, but he might just be able to turn things around if his assistants offer something more.

 

There are speculations that a loss to Spurs on Saturday could be the final nail in the 48-year-old’s coffin. A win at Tottenham would not only be a big morale boost for the team, it will also offer enough time to recuperate and evaluate how to change the current tide.