RANGNICK IS RELISHING THE CHANCE TO HELP UNITED
NEW interim manager Ralf Rangnick aims to help a Manchester United squad “full of talent” fulfil their potential during his short spell in charge.
The 63-year-old German has joined from Lokomotiv Moscow, where he was manager of sports and development, and will take over from caretaker boss Michael Carrick until the end of the season.
He will then take on a twoyear consultancy role.
“I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season for the club,” Rangnick told manutd. com.
“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.” First-team coach Carrick - who has overseen a Champions League win over Villarreal and a draw at Premier League leaders Chelsea - will remain in caretaker charge until Rangnick’s work visa is finalised.
It is understood United’s existing backroom staff will remain in place, although Rangnick will also bring in some of his own.
“Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football,” said United’s football director John Murtough.
“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. “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.”
Former United defender Gary Neville welcomed the appointment and the longerterm plan it represented. “Welcome to the Greatest Football Club in the World Ralf Rangnick,” he wrote on Twitter.
“A contract for six months to coach the team. A contract for two years to coach the club.”
However, Neville’s ex-teammate Rio Ferdinand believes Rangnick will have one eye on the main job.