Ralf Rangnick has been confirmed as Manchester United’s interim manager until the end of the season.
German 63 year-old Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was previously director of sport and development at Lokomotiv Moscow, has taken over the role of Director of Sports and Development until May.
Rangnick will then stay on at Old Trafford in a consultancy role for a further two years, although it’s possible he could land the manager’s job on a permanent basis if results go well.
Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick was finally confirmed
Rangnick, who is highly respected in the game, is known as “the godfather” of anti-pressing.
United selected Rangnick out of a list that included five applicants last week. They are currently negotiating Rangnick’s release from Lokomotiv, while Hanover boss Schalke and Hoffenheim applied for a permit to work.
That process is ongoing so it remains to be seen if Rangnick will be in the dug-out for Thursday’s game against Arsenal at Old Trafford.
Caretaker manager Michael Carrick, who has overseen a Champions League win over Villarreal and Sunday’s draw at Premier League leaders Chelsea, will remain in charge if Rangnick cannot begin work immediately.
United announced the news on Monday, saying: ‘Manchester United is delighted to announce the appointment of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager until the end of the season, subject to work visa requirements. Ralf agreed to continue his consultancy work for two more years after this time.
‘Michael Carrick will remain in charge of the First Team until Ralf’s work visa is finalised. The club wishes to place on record its thanks to Lokomotiv Moscow for their co-operation in the process of bringing Ralf to Manchester United.’
Rangnick spoke for the first time about his move to Old Trafford, saying: ‘I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season for the club. This squad has great talent, and it is balanced with youth and experienced players.
‘All my efforts for the next six months will be on helping these players fulfil their potential, both individually and, most importantly, as a team. Beyond that I look forward to supporting the club’s longer-term goals on a consultancy basis.’
Gary Neville quickly took to Twitter to praise Rangnick’s appointment at United
If Rangnick’s visa isn’t approved, Michael Carrick will continue to be in charge of Arsenal.
United’s football director John Murtough added: ‘Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football. We chose him as our preferred candidate to be Interim Manager due to the valuable leadership qualities and technical abilities he brings from nearly 40 years of management and coaching experience.
‘Everyone at the club is looking forward to working with him during the season ahead, and then for a further two years in his advisory role.’
After dropping Cristiano Ronaldo from the team, Carrick said that Rangnick did not have any influence on his tactics or selections. He also implemented a stronger press at Stamford Bridge.
Gary Neville (Sky Sports pundit) and United hero suggested Rangnick had picked the team. Neville was also in touch with Stamford Bridge’s coaching staff for guidance throughout the match.
Neville posted on Twitter, “A lot people are having a go against Michael Carrick because he dropped Ronaldo and picked that MDF,” ‘I’ve a feeling the the incoming manager has picked that team as it’s a huge departure from midweek and what they’ve been doing.’
Sources close to the club insist Fletcher spoke with analysts from the stands.
Neville, the United States legend was quick to welcome Rangnick to his team. Contract for six months as a coach. A contract of two years for the coach.
Rangnick will have the task of energize United and guiding them to the top four in the Premier League standings. They are currently in eighth position, five points ahead of West Ham in fourth.
United held Premier League champions Chelsea to a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. Jadon Sancho gave United the lead before Jorginho equalised with the penalty spot.
United’s Darren Fletcher seemed to be communicating with Rangnick through an earpiece at Chelsea
United and Premier League leader Chelsea drew 1-1 on Sunday. Jadon Sancho scored.
Rangnick’s footballing heritage is impressive. He’s known as the “Godfather in Gegenpressing” and has had an important influence on many of the top coaches such as Jurgen Klipp, Thomas Tuchel, and Julian Nagelsmann.
Rangnick draws comparisons to Klopp’s and Rangnicks tactical ideas. Interview with Coaches Voice, September. He said that Rangnick’s idea was clear and very similar to Jurgen Klupp, his almost-coaching friend.
“Our football is heavy metal and rock and roll, and it’s fast balls. You can’t make square or back passes. It doesn’t make any sense to just have the ball yourself.
Klopp was equally kind to Rangnick.
Liverpool boss Klopp stated that Rangnick is “unfortunately” coming to England as a coach, in response to a question.
‘Ralf, a clearly experienced manager, has built two famous clubs out of nothing to threaten and strengthen the German forces with (RB) Leipzig and Hoffenheim.
“Have done a lot of jobs in football. But his main concern has always been being a coach. He is a manager, and that is what his strongest skill was.” United will organise on the pitch, which I believe we need to realize. This is obviously bad news for other clubs.
Rangnick has influenced Jurgen Klopp, one of many renowned coaches.
Ragnick, left (left), has deep admiration of English football having been born in England at 21.
Rangnick spent his 20’s in England, where he discovered his passion for English football. Rangnick played at Southwick FC, a non-league football club.
Rangnick is now focused on the United players who can best fit his style. After being demoted at Chelsea, Cristiano Ronaldo will be the focus of most scrutiny. Rangnick had previously been harsh about Luke Shaw.
Rangnick, when asked about United’s performance last year said that Rangnick thought they would benefit from a left-back.
“I am aware that they have Luke Shaw. But I’m not sure if it’s the same level he needs to be at a club like Manchester United.
Jamie Carragher asked Rangnick if he will be able to convey his techniques to the United squad given December’s hectic footballing schedule.
On Sunday, Carragher stated that he has a plan for what he is going to do. Man United is hard to follow if you aren’t watching.
Rangnick will oversee the scrutiny surrounding Ronaldo’s role in United.
Rangnick also previously asked if Luke Shaw meets United’s standards.
United does not have a specific plan for winning football games.
“This guy is very organized. He’s not going to be able to stick to his plan.
You think there are at least five to six players that don’t fit the system. It’s not something you do every day and can’t be done quickly. Finding the time and energy to train is difficult.