Anthony Elanga has noted the part interim Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has played in his call-up to the Sweden national team.
The 19-year-old is enjoying a breakthrough season at United, going from academy star to first-team starter in a matter of months. And his impressive performances at club level have led to his first senior call-up.
Sweden are fighting for a place at the World Cup finals but must do so via the play-off route having finished second behind Spain in their qualifying group. They face the Czech Republic on Thursday and a win will see them land a winner-takes-all clash with Poland.
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Sweden fans will be hoping Elanga can help guide them to a second consecutive World Cup appearance, and the youngster has reiterated his desire to perform at the top level while giving a nod to Rangnick. He said: “He (Rangnick) has given me many opportunities, it feels good and it is good competition. Everyone is hungry and it is up to me to work hard to start in more matches.”
Elanga, who was also eligible to play for England and Cameroon, described his call-up to the Sweden squad as a dream. He added: “I was born in Sweden, spent 75 per cent of my life here and Sweden means a lot to me. Everyone knows that I could have represented Cameroon and England, but for me, it was always Sweden. It is a dream to represent Sweden at this level.”
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