Solskjaer is currently without key players Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford through injury and is hopeful of strengthening his squad before the January window shuts

Solskjaer said “I’m responsible for what is happening on the pitch, we’re looking to strengthen, we need to strengthen. We know that. We took the decision to let some players go as we needed to start afresh with a clear sight on the target in front of us which is a certain type of player. We know we need to get quality in and numbers in. We are working to improve and get players in. Hopefully, we can get something over the line. These players are stretched, and I’ve got no complaints on any of them – they give everything they’ve got. We’ve got to stick to our values, stick to our beliefs. And knowing that there is no use feeling sorry for yourself. Go out tomorrow, the next day with the same commitment and get ready for Sunday. We are stretched. Some of the players have played more than they should’ve – more mentally rather than physically, they need a mid-season break.”

Maradona, who is currently managing Dorados in Mexico’s second tier, believes he has what it takes to restore United to their former glory.

He said “If Manchester United need a coach, I’m the man to do it, i know they sell lots of shirts around the world, but they need to win trophies, too. I can do that for them. Manchester United used to be my favourite English team for so long. So many great players and a great team under Alex Ferguson. But now I have to say Man City. I know you shouldn’t change like that but it’s because of Kun Aguero. We speak a lot and he plays in a very good team.”

Mourinho, who was sacked as United manager in December, also said that Paul Pogba was not responsible for his dismissal.

When asked by French newspaper L’Equipe if he was a victim of Pogba, Mourinho said “No, no. The problems are there, you can imagine that the problems are the players, the organisation and the ambition. I will only say that I cannot say ‘yes’ when you ask if Paul was the only one responsible. On Manchester United, I only want to say two things. One is that time has spoken. Two, it’s the problems are still there.”