Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returns to work in England

Coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will assume a new position in England during this week.

Since parting ways with Besiktas in August, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has not yet returned to coaching. Earlier this month, the Norwegian strategist was rumored to possibly make a comeback at Old Trafford after Manchester United decided to dismiss Ruben Amorim. He held discussions with club officials about the possibility of serving as interim manager until the end of the season, but the "Red Devils" ultimately chose Michael Carrick.

With his coaching future still uncertain, Solskjaer is currently focused on his role at UEFA. The former Norwegian striker is working as a technical observer for this season's Champions League.

According to plans, he will be present in England to watch the match between Liverpool and Qarabag at Anfield. If Liverpool wins, they will secure a direct spot in the knockout stage. Besides Solskjaer, UEFA’s list of technical observers includes notable names such as former Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou, Gareth Southgate, and Roberto Martinez.

As described by UEFA, during each match, the appointed technical observer works closely with UEFA's Performance Analysis department to gather data and footage. Observers have access to multiple camera angles, including broadcast views, tactical perspectives, and high-angle shots behind the goal, allowing them to monitor and analyze the game either on-site or remotely.

In addition to analysis, each observer is responsible for selecting the best player of the match they are assigned to. At the end of the season, the entire group of observers collectively votes on awards such as Player of the Season, Best Young Player, Team of the Season, and Best Goal of the campaign.

In the 2024/25 season, PSG’s Ousmane Dembele was honored as the best player of the season, while Rodri from Manchester City was the most recent recipient of this award among players from English clubs in the 2022/23 season.