Meng Summerhill issues a strong warning: Manchester United bringing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back is like taking a step backward.
On 9 Jan 2025 GMT+7, following Manchester United's official decision to part ways with Portuguese coach Rúben Amorim, the name Ole Gunnar Solskjaer resurfaced. Trusted football journalists David Ornstein and Laurie Whitwell identified him as the leading candidate to become Manchester United's interim manager.
Recently, Meng Summerhill shared his thoughts on Manchester United's coaching options on the 'Clear on the Sidelines: International Football' online program by Thairath Sport. He believes that appointing a coach with Manchester United's DNA as a permanent manager is a step backward, though it could be beneficial if the role is temporary.
Meng Summerhill said, "Solskjaer's strength is knowing the players well and placing them in their positions, but his weakness lies in tactics, intensity, and adaptability. Over time, he has been unable to overcome these limitations. We know his strengths and weaknesses. Bringing him back as a permanent manager has a very high chance of repeating the same issues. To be frank, it feels like a step backward."
"However, if he's brought in as a short-term fix for 3-5 months, that's acceptable. He can help a lot and is better than investing in a new coach. For example, Xavi has no guarantees and has never managed in the Premier League. Paying high wages for 3, 6, or 12 months without success leads to heavy criticism. Choosing a coach with the club's DNA is the safest option—but only temporarily. He must not be appointed as the permanent manager under any circumstances."