Throughout its history, Manchester United have relied on a mix of interim managers to steer the club during turbulent times. Following the appointment of Ruben Amorim, it's the perfect time to reflect on these temporary bosses, who faced the tough job of stepping in and keeping the club afloat while bringing their spark to the team.
Here, we’ve ranked United's interim managers, considering their impact, win percentages, and challenges they faced. Let’s dive in.
6. Ralf Rangnick (2021-2022)
Games: 29
Win Percentage: 38%
Ralf Rangnick, known as the "godfather of gegenpressing," arrived at Old Trafford in December 2021 with a strong reputation as a tactical mastermind. Unfortunately, his tenure as interim manager didn’t go as planned.
Tasked with a quick turnaround for a United squad that struggled with consistency, Rangnick couldn't implement his complex, high-intensity system in a short time. He left without a chance to fulfil his promised consulting role, marking a brief and challenging spell.
5. Ryan Giggs (2014)
Games: 4
Win Percentage: 50%
In April 2014, United legend Ryan Giggs took over for the final four games after David Moyes’ dismissal. Giggs' short stint as player-manager saw him win two games, including a victory against Norwich City, before a crowd that cheered on his final professional appearance at Old Trafford. Though brief, Giggs’ time brought a refreshing sense of club pride and nostalgia for fans, setting the stage for his future as a coach.
4. Jimmy Murphy (1958)
Games: 22
Win Percentage: 23%
Jimmy Murphy’s role as caretaker manager came under tragic circumstances following the 1958 Munich air disaster. With United's squad deeply impacted by the loss of players and staff, Murphy courageously stepped up, guiding the team in the immediate aftermath.
Though his win rate was low, his leadership helped United reach the FA Cup final, providing a glimmer of hope during one of the darkest chapters in club history. Murphy’s commitment and resilience are legendary, earning him a lasting place in United’s legacy.
3. Michael Carrick (2021)
Games: 3
Win Percentage: 67%
Michael Carrick stepped in after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure in November 2021, instantly impressing with three high-stakes performances. Carrick led United to victory over Villarreal to secure Champions League knockout qualification, then drew with Chelsea, and finally beat Arsenal at Old Trafford.
His calm demeanour and tactical savvy proved his potential as a future manager, making his three-game interim stint memorable and impactful. He is currently the manager at Middlesbrough, much to the satisfaction of fans, who admired his steady hand at United and now see him thriving in his managerial journey.
2. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (2018-2019)
Games: 19
Win Percentage: 74%
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s interim stint in 2018-2019 was nothing short of magical. Immediately, he led United to ten wins in his first eleven games, bringing joy and excitement back to Old Trafford. His Champions League comeback victory against Paris Saint-Germain remains unforgettable.
Solskjaer’s uplifting approach won fans over, leading to a permanent role at United. His unbeaten domestic start and transformative effect on the team make him one of the club’s standout interim managers.
1. Ruud van Nistelrooy (2024)
Games: 4
Win Percentage: 75%
Taking the top spot is former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who became interim manager in 2024. Brought in after a difficult start to the season under Erik ten Hag, van Nistelrooy’s time at the helm was brief but impactful.
With wins over Leicester (twice) and PAOK and a respectable draw against Chelsea, van Nistelrooy left his mark with a 75% win rate. His calm leadership and tactical prowess re-energised fans and brought a strong sense of optimism back to Old Trafford, proving his legacy as a player and a manager at United.
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