Ole Gunnar Solskjaer turns down chance to manage Iran at the World Cup

There will be no Ole at the wheel this World Cup

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reportedly turned down an approach from Iran to take over the national side ahead of their upcoming appearance at the World Cup. Iran sacked previous boss Dragan Skocic on Monday despite helping Iran to qualify for the tournament in Qatar this winter, helping them finish ahead of South Korea in their qualification group. Skocic won 15 of the 18 games in charge but two defeats from their last three games - including a 2-1 defeat to Algeria in June - prompted a change in management. He left Iran as the highest-ranked Asian side, sitting 23rd in the world rankings. Foot Mercato claimed that Solskjaer is 'admired' by the Iranian Football Association, but the Norwegian has informed them that he doesn't want to take the job and currently has other commitments that take priority. Solskjaer has been out of coaching work since he was sacked by Manchester United in November after a 4-1 defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road. The former United striker has been linked with other positions at domestic level, but doesn't look set to return to the dugout anytime soon.

Iran have turned to other targets for the role

Following the news that Solskjaer isn't keen on taking the job, Iran have began looking at other options. Current Oman boss Branko Ivankovic, who was in charge when Iran featured at the 2006 World Cup is being considered. Former Bayern Munich striker Ali Daei and ex-Osasuna midfielder Javad Nekounam have also been linked with the vacant position. Iran will be playing at the World Cup for the sixth time in their history and appearing at their third consecutive tournament. They've been drawn in Group B, where they will be facing England, Wales and the USA. Related links:

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