Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick has reaffirmed his commitment to helping re-establish the Red Devils as a force in both domestic and European football despite having been named as the new manager of the Austria national team.
The German has been in charge at Old Trafford since November having replaced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on an interim basis. He was originally set to be in charge until the end of the season before moving into a consultancy role.
However, there has been considerable doubt placed over Rangnick's commitments with the announcement that he will succeed compatriot Franco Foda at the helm of the Austrian side. The former RB Leipzig head coach has confirmed that his ambitions of assisting Manchester United has not wavered.
He said: “I will take over as national team manager of Austria at the end of the season but will continue my consultancy with Manchester United. I’m really looking forward to playing my part in helping United become a real force again.
“It is an honour for me to take on the role of [Austria] manager. The prospect of contesting the European Championships in Germany with a young team hungry for success fills me with great anticipation.”
Rangnick, 63, has not enjoyed the impact that he would have desired at Old Trafford despite his impressive pedigree. He has overseen 25 matches at the helm in all competitions, winning just ten.
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An indifferent run of form has seen the Red Devils fall out of contention for a Champions League place. Following the 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Old Trafford, United sit five points behind fourth-placed Arsenal with just three matches left to play - the Gunners having two games in-hand.
Whilst Rangnick has confirmed that he will still oversee his role at Old Trafford, he will be working alongside a new face. Erik Ten Hag has already been confirmed as the club’s new long-term manager.
Rangnick has already given his endorsement to the Ajax head coach taking the reins at United once his spell comes to an end. Writing in the club’s matchday programme, he said: "I think Erik is a very good choice.
"From those I have spoken to within football who know him and from my own impression of his style of football, I see it as a really positive appointment."
The German continued: "I am looking forward to working in that advisory role and obviously helping Eric as much as he wants it himself. So far, we haven't been able to speak with each other and we have had no contact. Obviously, I'm more than willing and prepared to help both Erik and whomever in the club in order to change everything for the better."
