Ralf Rangnick has given his first interview since being appointed Manchester United interim head coach, explaining how he wants to turn the club’s fortunes around.
United parted company with Solskjaer last week after picking up just four points from the last 21 available in the Premier League, with defeat against Watford the final straw.
The club’s board quickly realised their preferred managerial targets would not be available until next summer so began searching for an experienced manager to take the reins on temporary basis.
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Rangnick emerged as the stand-out candidate after a number of video interviews and accepted United’s job offer, which will see him move into a consultancy role once his time in the dugout finishes.
The Red devils have been criticised for their lacklustre and ineffective pressing this campaign, below-par defending and a lack of direction and purpose to their build-up, with Rangnick facing a tough task to turn things around.
But the 63-year-old, who is considered the architect of gegenpressing, is eager to stamp his mark on the team and is confident he can turn things around.
He told the club’s website: ‘I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season for the club.
‘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.’
John Murtough, Manchester United football director, said: ‘Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football. 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.’
It is not yet clear whether Rangnick will be in charge when Arsenal come to Old Trafford on Thursday night, with his appointment still ‘subject to work visa requirements.’
A club statement read: ‘Michael Carrick will remain in charge of the first team until Ralf’s work visa is finalised.’
