Ralf Rangnick is set to be named Manchester United’s interim manager after reaching an agreement with the club over the vacant role, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer dismissed after last week’s defeat to Watford.
Rangnick has an outstanding pedigree in the German game and established coaches like Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel have both drawn inspiration from the former RB Leipzig chief.
According to German journalist Patrick Berger, Lokomotiv Moscow have agreed to let Rangick join Manchester United and the German will take charge of the Reds for the first time against Arsenal next week.
Ahead of this weekend’s fixtures, Klopp has now delivered his own verdict on Rangnick’s imminent arrival at Manchester United.
Courtesy of Football Daily
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“Usually we don’t talk about things that are not confirmed yet but if you tell me it will happen I might believe you,” Klopp told reporters, as seen above.
“Unfortunately, a good coach is coming to England. That’s how it is. Ralf is obviously a really experienced manager, built most famously two clubs from nowhere to proper threats and proper forces in Germany with Hoffenheim and Leipzig.
“Did a lot of different jobs in football but his first concern was always being a coach, being a manager, and that’s what his best skill is obviously.
“United will be organised on the pitch. I think we should realise that and that’s obviously not good news for other teams. But all coaches in the world need time to train with our teams. And Ralf will pretty quickly realise he has no time to train because they play all the time.
“So that makes it a bit trickier for him but apart from that, a really good man and outstanding coach, if it happens, will come to England.”
SN’s verdict on Rangnick’s appointment…
The imminent arrival of the 63-year-old makes perfect sense for Manchester United on and off the pitch. Rangnick is renowned for his ability to plan long-term and that’s what United have been lacking in recent years.
Where Solskjaer perhaps lacked in the tactical department and on-pitch nous, Rangnick has in abundance. His two-year consultancy role following his interim spell will also help shape the future of the club.
Rangnick will be hoping to steer United into safe waters this season before taking a step back and aiding the club in their bid to re-establish themselves as Europe’s main force.