For the next few weeks, one topic will likely dominate much of the conversation among Manchester United supporters.
Was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's previous season truly one of progress?
The defeat in the Europa League final to La Liga side Villarreal left a sour taste in the mouth only days after finishing the Premier League season unbeaten away from home, but there appears to be one negative for every positive.
It is critical to understand that the terms "progress" and "success" are not synonymous. Winning a major European trophy would have been an undeniable step forward after three trophy-less seasons, but that does not always equate to success for a club of this size.
Ultimately, the decision will be made by those in charge of the club, but all indications are that Solskjaer has not only shown 'progress,' but has done enough to be rewarded with a new contract soon.
When compared to other clubs, United is in a rather unique situation. Sure, the Norwegian coach has done well to restore harmony to Old Trafford and, ultimately, to fulfill his initial brief of 'putting smiles back on faces,' but is there any real reason to rush things with a new contract this summer?
Given his past experiences as both a United great and an inexperienced manager, there is little chance of him being poached by a rival club, nor is there any rush to extend his tenure in the job he has desired for well over a decade.
The cards are all in United's hands this summer, making their decision that much more difficult.
While some fans will demand managerial changes due to concerns that Liverpool, Chelsea, and possibly Tottenham will overtake them next season, United are eager to find stability and move away from their recent reputation as a club content to ride the modern manager merry-go-round.
A new contract for Solskjaer would be yet another public demonstration of the club's faith in him as manager, while such backing could also be a crucial negotiating tool in the summer window when trying to persuade potential new recruits to buy into the club's long-term vision.
Alternatively, a new contract could be seen as an unnecessary expense given that he still has a year left on his current contract and has yet to demonstrate his worth as the man who can lead United back to the top.
The manner of the defeat to Villarreal six days ago has reignited the debate over Solskjaer's suitability for the managerial role, and the club now faces a major decision regarding their long-term strategy.
A new contract would undoubtedly provide clarity ahead of an uncertain summer, but it could also be viewed as an overly cautious decision at a time when the manager has yet to demonstrate his trophy-winning credentials.
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