While news broke of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s appointment as Manchester United’s permanent manager on Thursday morning, the players were told a day earlier.
United have handed the Norwegian boss a three-year contract to make him their manager on a permanent basis, confirming the move in a press release at 9am.
The move has seemed inevitable for many weeks given the transformation United have undergone since Solskjaer arrived on a caretaker basis following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December.
Solksjaer has won 14 of his 19 games in charge, reviving hopes of a top-four finish and unexpectedly guiding United to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in-tray: 6 issues Man Utd manager must address this summer
And Manchester Evening News have claimed that the United players were informed of the decision at their Carrington training base on Wednesday when they returned from international duty.
Following the confirmation of his permanent appointment, Solskjaer said on manutd.com: "This is the job that I always dreamed of doing and I'm beyond excited to have the chance to lead the club long term and hopefully deliver the continued success that our amazing fans deserve."
United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward added: "More than just performances and results, Ole brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and as a coach, coupled with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club.
Gary Neville reveals what new Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needs now
"I want to thank Ole and the coaching team for everything they have done so far and congratulate him on this richly deserved appointment.
“The fans and everyone at the club are behind him as he looks to take us where we need to be and build the next stage of our history."
Solskjaer's former United teammate Peter Schmeichel tweeted: "Congratulations my friend, it is well deserved. Up and onwards lets chase some trophies."
