OLE: WE WON’T GROW UNTIL WE’RE UNITED
Boss’ plea to ease tensions
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER says he hopes the trust damaged between the club’s owners and the fans can eventually be repaired.
Protests about the Glazer family’s ownership of Manchester United following their attempt to join the European Super League escalated into violence last Sunday.
Six police officers were injured and the match against Liverpool had to be postponed.
But while Solskjaer conceded that tensions remained high, he called for unity and all sides to come together behind the team.
“I understand fans want to see results and trophies,” said the United boss. “Hopefully, they can see this team are moving forward. Hopefully, we can get to a final – that’s the short-term fix and then we’ll have to take it from there.”
United have one foot in the Europa League final following their 6-2 first-leg semi-final win over Roma at Old Trafford.
While there is relief the second leg is away given the tensions at the club, there is the prospect of further protests at next Tuesday’s match against Leicester and 48 hours later when United host the rearranged Liverpool game.
“Friction and challenge is sometimes good to move things forward, the last few weeks have been difficult,” said Solskjaer.
“Of course, it has to be a united football club to make things grow. You need to give it patience. I’m hopeful that in time we can unite and come together.”
Solskjaer insisted he respected the right for supporters to voice their concerns about the Glazers but insisted any further protest must be peaceful.
“It was a difficult day for us,” he said. “We have to hear the fans’ voice. It’s everyone’s right to protest but it has to be in a peaceful and civilised manner.
“Unfortunately, when you break in and when a police officer get scarred for life, that’s one step too far.
“We know, as a club, we need to communicate better. I’ve been communicating with the owners and I got an apology, personally.
“They’ve apologised to the fans about how this came out.
“I’ve always had a good relationship with them, they listen to me and they do listen to the fans. I’m sure there will be better communication coming.”
Edinson Cavani was unplayable against Roma last week and Solskjaer is increasingly hopeful the veteran striker will stick around for another season.
“We’ve had some good chats lately and I’m still hopeful,” said the manager.