Ole Gunnar Solskjær managed Manchester United from December 2018 to November 2021, first as an interim head coach and later as the permanent manager. His tenure is often remembered for stabilizing the club post-Mourinho, returning United to Champions League contention, and developing a younger core—while also falling short of winning a major trophy.
Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s Overall Record at Manchester United
Across all competitions during his time in charge, Solskjær compiled the following record:
- Matches managed: 168
- Wins: 91
- Draws: 37
- Losses: 40
- Win percentage: ~54%
This win rate places Solskjær among the more successful post-Sir Alex Ferguson managers in terms of consistency, even though silverware ultimately proved elusive.
Premier League Record Under Solskjær
In league play, Solskjær oversaw a noticeable improvement in results and finishes:
- Premier League matches: 109
- Wins: 56
- Draws: 29
- Losses: 24
- Points per game: ~1.8
League Finishes
- 2018–19: 6th
- 2019–20: 3rd
- 2020–21: 2nd
The second-place finish in 2020–21 was Manchester United’s highest league finish since Sir Alex Ferguson retired.
Cup Competitions & European Performance
While domestic consistency improved, cup success was limited.
UEFA Europa League
- 2020–21: Runners-up (lost final on penalties)
Domestic Cups
- Multiple semi-final appearances (FA Cup, EFL Cup)
- No domestic trophies won
Despite reaching several late-stage matches, United often struggled to convert strong runs into titles.
Notable Achievements Under Solskjær
- Longest away unbeaten run in Premier League history (29 matches)
- Back-to-back top-four finishes
- Re-established United as a consistent Champions League qualifier
- Oversaw development of key players including Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Luke Shaw
Why Ole Gunnar Solskjær Was Sacked
Solskjær was dismissed in November 2021 following a poor run of form, including heavy league defeats and defensive instability. Despite strong league finishes in previous seasons, the lack of trophies and declining performances early in the 2021–22 campaign led to his exit.
Final Verdict on Solskjær’s Manchester United Tenure
Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s record at Manchester United reflects a solid but ultimately transitional era. He restored structure, improved league performance, and reconnected the club with its attacking identity—but fell short of delivering silverware.
Summary:
- Strong league results
- No major trophies
- Important rebuilding phase for the club
For many supporters, Solskjær will be remembered as the manager who steadyed the ship, even if he didn’t take United all the way back to the summit of English and European football.