Betting Markets React as Manchester United Target Solskjaer and Carrick for Interim Return

The betting landscape for the next Manchester United manager has been thrown into a frenzy following the sacking of Ruben Amorim. Industry oddsmakers are now pricing up a familiar narrative: the return of the “Old Guard,” with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick emerging as the frontrunners for a caretaker role at Old Trafford.

The Odds-On Favorites

Following Amorim’s turbulent 14-month tenure, United leadership is reportedly set for face-to-face talks with both Solskjaer and Carrick. For sportsbooks and iGaming operators, this presents a unique “back to the future” scenario that often triggers high retail betting volume.

• Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: Despite a recent unsuccessful stint at Besiktas (sacked in August 2025), Solskjaer remains a sentimental favorite for bettors. He famously delivered a 53.1% win rate during his previous United tenure—the joint-best Premier League finish in the post-Ferguson era.
• Michael Carrick: Sacked by Middlesbrough last June, Carrick offers a lower win percentage (46.8%) but high tactical familiarity, having served as a key lieutenant under both Solskjaer and Jose Mourinho.

Market Volatility: The “Shared Role” Wildcard

In a move that could complicate “Next Manager” betting markets, reports suggest the club is considering a shared leadership role or keeping current interim Darren Fletcher in place through the end of the season.

Fletcher takes charge of his first match this Wednesday against Burnley. A positive result at Turf Moor could see “Fletcher to stay” odds shorten significantly, potentially disrupting the short-term market for Solskjaer and Carrick. Other names appearing on the boards include former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, further diluting the pool of potential candidates.

The Data: Managerial Comparison

The Long-Game: Permanent Successor Betting

While the caretaker role is the immediate focus, high-volume betting continues for the permanent summer appointment. Two names are dominating the offshore and domestic boards:

1. Oliver Glasner: The Crystal Palace boss, fresh off an FA Cup win, remains a top target despite his public insistence that he is focused on the Eagles.
2. Roberto de Zerbi: Currently at Marseille, the former Brighton manager is viewed by many analysts as the tactical “alpha” United needs for a long-term rebuild.

Gaming America Insight: For operators, Manchester United’s managerial carousel remains one of the highest-handle “Special” markets in sports betting. The potential appointment of a “nostalgia” duo like Solskjaer and Carrick typically drives high engagement from casual fans, whereas the permanent appointment of a tactical heavyweight like Glasner often attracts sharper, larger-scale liability.

David Thompson

Editor

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