If Ole Gunnar Solskjaer does manage to survive sacking at Manchester United, as many outlets are claiming, he will have Cristiano Ronaldo to thank.
According to a recent report by the Manchester Evening News, part of the reason that the United dressing room hasn't completed turned against the manager is down to the Portuguese superstar, who rejoined his former club this summer.
As per the MEN, Ronaldo is supposedly "holding the dressing room together" after a series of shambolic United performances in recent weeks.
Advert
Solskjaer's job security was always likely to be called into question after the events of this past weekend.
The Red Devils were humiliated at Old Trafford, losing 5-0 to bitter rivals Liverpool in the Premier League.
That defeat came on the back of a late collapse away at Leicester City, where Ole's men conceded two goals in the last 10 minutes to throw away a point at the very least.
Advert
In such circumstances, some players might begin to lose faith in their coach's methods - and therefore start to intentionally erode his authority.
However, Ronaldo is said to have told his peers to stay professional, regardless of their feelings for the 48-year-old.
The MEN states that the 36-year-old explicitly told the squad to not down tools, which further exemplifies why he is one of the greatest players of all time.
Advert
In terms of Solskjaer's immediate future, the Norwegian now has three games to save his job, according to the Telegraph.
That means he will be in the dugout for the tough upcoming trips to Tottenham and Atalanta, as well as the Manchester derby back at Old Trafford.
If United fail to impress in those fixtures, it seems highly likely that Solskjaer will be shown the door.
A number of managers have already been linked with the coveted position, with Antonio Conte being viewed as the logical appointment - should the club's board opt to make a managerial change.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Manchester United, Premier League, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Old Trafford, Cristiano Ronaldo