Manchester United appoint German Ralf Rangnick as interim manager

Rangnick steps in to replace Solskjaer, who was removed after United’s 4-1 defeat by Watford this month, their seventh loss in 13 games across all competitions which left them eighth in the Premier League standings.

“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,” the club said in a statement.

“Following this period, Ralf and the club have agreed that he will continue in a consultancy role for a further two years.”

Former midfielder Michael Carrick, one of Solskjaer’s assistants, took charge of the team for their Champions League victory at Villarreal last Tuesday, and oversaw the 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.

Rangnick, who began coaching in the early 1980s, is a proponent of ‘gegenpressing’ — a style of football in which teams press high and use counter-pressing to win the ball back as soon as possible after losing it, rather than falling back to regroup.

“I’m excited to be joining United and focused on making this a successful season for the club,” Rangnick said.

“The squad is full of talent and has a great balance of youth and experience. 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.”

The 63-year-old has coached a number of clubs in Germany, enjoying great success. He achieved back-to-back promotions with Hoffenheim in 2006-07 and 2007-08 to get them into the German top flight for the first time.

He led Schalke to the German Cup in 2011, before helping establish RB Leipzig as a leading Bundesliga side during two spells as coach.

Rangnick enjoyed most success in his role as director of football at Leipzig, a position he fulfilled from 2012 to 2019. The club rose from the regional German fourth tier to competing in the Champions League during his reign.

“Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football,” United football director John Murtough said.

“He was our number one candidate for interim manager, reflecting the invaluable leadership and technical skills he will bring from almost four decades of experience in management and coaching.”

Rangnick leaves a role as head of sport and development at Russian Premier League side Lokomotiv Moscow to take over at Old Trafford.

Carrick will remain in charge of the first team until Rangnick’s work visa is finalised.

United, who are eighth with 18 points from 13 games, host Arsenal in the league on Thursday.

REUTERS