Ralf Rangnick explains 4-2-2-2 decision and praises Fred
Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has given his verdict on Manchester United’s performance against Crystal Palace.
The interim manager told United’s official club website that he was ‘happy’ and ‘positively surprised’ with the team’s performance in the 1-0 victory.
Fred scored the winning goal and drew particular praise from the German coach, who said he was impressed with what the midfielder brings to the team. He added Fred’s winner was a ‘beautiful goal’.
Rangnick said: “I think everybody loves Fred. You have to love Fred. I’ve got to know him for only two days now but he’s a sunshine.”
RONALDO NEEDS TO STOP WHINING.
Tactical switch explained
United lined up with a 4-2-2-2 formation which helped the team better control the game. United ended the match with 61 per cent possession.
Rangnick explained he felt the move would help prevent Ronaldo getting too isolated: “We decided to go for a slightly different formation but only slightly different.
“We played with two strikers, Marcus and Cristiano up front with Jadon and Bruno on the 10 position and for the rest of the team it was the same position as usual. I just thought it might be better to have control in the centre of the pitch with Cristiano having a partner up front and I think it worked out well.”
While this was a rare game where Ronaldo did not score, he managed 55 touches and had five shots at goal, with United succeeding in getting him on the ball.
Praise for supporters
Rangnick added that he was appreciative of the role Manchester United fans played in helping the team record the win.
He said: “The way they [the fans] encouraged the team, they helped the team even in difficult situations, it’s amazing. Probably unique.”
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