Manchester United: Solskjaer makes Philippe Coutinho decision

According to recent reports, Manchester United have been offered a chance to sign Coutinho and Solskjaer has made his decision about the transfer.

It is a rivalry steeped in tradition. For centuries, the two giant Northern bastions have competed for dominion in the North. As football was birthed, the first to rise briefly was Liverpool, before Sir Matt Busby would kindle the flames at Manchester United. Bill Shankly would topple Busby in the end, but ultimately Sir Alex Ferguson managed to knock Liverpool off their perch.

Now a new hegemony beckons under the leadership of Jurgen Klopp in the Premier League. It will be one that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be desperate to stop.

Because of the great divide and rivalry between the two clubs, there have been just a few who have represented both teams during their professional careers.

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Michael Owen was one of the most recent ones and undoubtedly the most infamous. Though Paul Ince who played for the two sides in the 90s is regarded with some hostility at Old Trafford to this day.

With Phillipe Coutinho being ‘offered’ to the Red Devils according to ESPN via the Daily Express, there was the possibility of a new name being added to the list. However, ESPN reports, that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has decided ‘he doesn’t want to take up Barcelona’s proposal’ and thus the Red Devils will not be pursuing Philippe Coutinho in the transfer window.

The Brazilian who had enjoyed a stellar spell at Liverpool, has seen his career on a downward spiral since he left England having endured tough periods at both Barcelona and whilst out on loan at Bayern Munich.

With Barcelona unwilling to retain Philippe Coutinho’s services, it is looking more and more likely that the Brazilian will depart for pastures new.

There is a saying in football which has now become a cliche ‘form is temporary and class is permanent.’ Regardless of how overused it might have become, the adage could ring true in the case of Philippe Coutinho. With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer desperate for another creative midfielder it is surprising the Norwegian has seemingly decided not to pursue the former Liverpool star.

Especially considering Philippe Coutinho’s arrival could spite the Red Devils’ arch rivals.

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Do you think Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made the right decision?