Forget a three-year deal, the next three months could decide Solskjaer's future as United boss

MANCHESTER United have finally announced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the new permanent manager, in a move that will delight United supporters across the world.

Fans will now be hoping that contract extensions follow in the coming weeks for Ander Herrera and David De Gea.

But, the general feeling amongst supporters is that if Solskjaer is to be a success and mount a serious title challenge next campaign, then he must receive sufficient financial backing from the owners in the summer window.

Although few will argue with the Norwegian’s appointment, it does follow defeats to Arsenal in the league and Wolves in the FA Cup, and how United perform on the pitch between now and the summer window, will have huge implications on who he can sign, and how successful Solskjaer will be at the club.

Despite his outstanding run it’s not inconceivable to think that United will miss out on Champions League football next season, which could mean that they are then plunged into an unexpected fight to not only keep hold of De Gea, but midfield superstar Paul Pogba too.

The continued support from the fans will also be essential if the club are to edge past a Lionel Messi-led Barcelona in the Champions League, and a humiliating defeat against the Spanish giants may make members of the current squad and potential new signings think twice about whether or not Solskjaer is the right man to lead United back to the glory days.

So, is it a decision based on sentiment or has Solskjaer genuinely got what it takes to lead United back to the top?

Results on the pitch suggest he has got what it takes, but as we saw at Chelsea with Roberto Di Matteo, outstanding success in the short term, doesn’t guarantee trophies over a longer period.

It might also after Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, be the final managerial roll of the dice for Ed Woodward.

David Moyes was Sir Alex Ferguson’s choice, but Woodward’s appointments since have left supporters feeling disgruntled with what they have seen on the pitch, and underwhelmed with the transfer activity off it.

A new Director of Football is also reported to be announced between now and August and it’s a move that will place even more pressure on Woodward and Solskjaer. Will the new man be Solskjaer’s choice or will he be pushed to work with the new manager by Woodward?

Watch this space.

It’s a big few months starting with Watford at Old Trafford at the weekend.

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