Premier League 2018-19: 3 reasons why Ole Gunnar Solskjaer deserves the full-time Manchester United job

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Manchester United have seen a massive change at the club since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over in December.

Solskjaer has been the subject of keen interest from all sections of the media. His calm demeanor and charisma at United have rubbed off to other members of the club, and it seems like a matter of when and not if he'll be given the job permanently.

Jose Mourinho was in charge at a time when United were limping lions and struggling to find their identity. Solskjaer, a former super sub at United, knows what it means to play at the highest level. He scored a dramatic goal as United came back from behind to seal a 2-1 win over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League. He came into the club knowing what it means to wear that famous jersey.

Under no circumstance would any of the United chiefs have imagined that Solskjaer could turn around the club's fortunes in a season that seemed doomed at the half way point. The Norwegian deserves to be the full-time United boss, and here is why.

#3 Attacking system

Matic and Pogba are key components of Solskjaer's system
Matic and Pogba are key components of Solskjaer's system

Solskjaer has got the team playing some attacking football, which is in United's blood. After he took over, the team started pumping goals left, right and centre. With every test, he conjured up something for the specific opponent he was up against.

There is more belief in the players, and the fans are behind the team. Under Solskjaer, the Red Devils have used a system of three midfielders including Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera and Nemanja Matic. Before the trio was broken up due to injuries or suspension, they dictated terms during play.

In some matches, Solskjaer showed that lack of solid experience as a manger is not a limiting factor. Take the example of the away games against Arsenal (FA Cup), Tottenham Hotspur (League) and PSG - United sat back and seized their chances when they did come, to snatch crucial victories.

#2 Mentality

Manchester United showed nerves of steel to eliminate PSG.
Manchester United showed nerves of steel to eliminate PSG.

Solskjaer has completely changed the mentality at Old Trafford. His smile and way of conducting himself have compelled everyone to dance to his tunes. The mood in the locker room is much better now, almost as if a previous dark cloud has been lifted.

Solskjaer is the epitome of how a proper Manchester United manager should be like.

In press conferences, he is honest enough to admit when the team does not perform. However, he does not openly throw verbal jabs at his players. He does know how to man manage the players, which has been instrumental in keeping the morale high.

Solskjaer constantly refers to the term "We are Manchester United". This is to evoke a sense of pride in the players when they get the chance to don that jersey.

#1 Results

Arsenal v Manchester United - FA Cup Fourth Round
Arsenal v Manchester United - FA Cup Fourth Round

When it comes down to it, results are the most important aspect of all. Solskjaer has been in charge of United for 19 matches. Out of this, he has overseen 14 victories, two draws and only three losses. This represents a 73.7% win rate for the Norwegian.

In December 2018, United were 11 points off the top four. Now, the team has a chance to squeeze into third position in the Premier League during this final lap.

His notable victories include eliminating the mighty PSG in the Champions League. Solskjaer also orchestrated a masterclass in tossing out Chelsea and Arsenal in consecutive FA Cup away matches.

He is the first manager in the Premier League era to win eight consecutive away games since taking over at a club.

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