Ralf Rangnick has pledged his full support behind incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag - but hasn't even spoken to him yet.
The Red Devils interim manager will make way for Ten Hag when this season comes to an end, with the acclaimed German coach stepping into a consultancy role at Old Trafford for at least two years. With only four games to go, preparations are well underway for Ten Hag's arrival from Ajax, but Rangnick has revealed that he is yet to have a conversation with the Dutch tactician.
Speaking ahead of United's Premier League clash with Chelsea on Thursday, the 63-year-old told reporters: "[Ten Hag's] focus is on Ajax now and trying to win the title there, my focus for the next few weeks is on our club, on getting the best possible results. Whenever he has time, or would like to speak, yes I am available, but I would not want to contact him on my own account now."
Despite the pair's lack of communication, Rangnick is looking forward to working alongside the current Ajax boss, who was confirmed as the Red Devils' new manager last week. "I strongly believe that there is a lot of things that can become better and will become better with a new manager and hopefully with some new players, with some fresh energy in that squad," he declared.
"With this group of new players and the quality of players that are already here, together with the new manager, I am very positive that next season will be a lot better. I am looking forward to working in that advisory role and obviously helping Eric as much as he wants it himself.
"Obviously, I am more than willing and prepared to help both Erik and whomever in the club in order to change everything for the better."
Join the debate! Will Ten Hag turn Man Utd around? Let us know your prediction below.
Ten Hag, too, has made it clear that his full focus is on finishing well in Amsterdam after four-and-a-half years in charge. "I always keep focused on the job I have to do. It doesn't matter what's around me." he told a post-match news conference after Ajax beat NAC Breda 1-0 on Saturday, a result which moves them within touching distance of his third Eredivisie title.
"You always spend time on the future, but my head and my energy is for Ajax. I don't have any opinion about Man United's results. I show respect for people who are at Man United, and I am for responsible for Ajax and that is what I comment on."
