Ralf Rangnick is one of the most intriguing options for Manchester United when it comes to hiring an interim manager.
Rangnick has been linked for three weeks now, with BILD journalist Christian Falk claiming his interest after the City defeat.
United finally acted to sack Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last Sunday after a 4-1 loss to Watford, when it became apparent he was going to be unable to turn the team’s form around.
Now a report in The Times has provided a fresh update on Rangnick’s stance, and it is an intriguing one.
What more can United offer?
Rangnick is keen on the interim role, but does not want it to end there. He wants a longer term commitment, and not necessarily as manager.
The Times report: “Rangnick is willing to leave his role as head of sports and development at Lokomotiv Moscow, but only if he is given a significant role at United beyond this season.”
Rangnick has previously worked as sporting director for both RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg, and is responsible for implementing forward-thinking recruitment strategies which have turned both clubs into Champions League sides.
He is undertaking a similar strategic role in Russia, although is seemingly willing to drop that for the United job.
United did hire John Murtough as director of football back in January, which could be an obstacle for giving Rangnick a senior position beyond interim manager after next summer.
What this requires is some creative planning on United’s part, to develop a role which allows space for both Murtough and Rangnick to do their jobs.
Rangnick’s interest in United is welcome, and the club should take the opportunity to put his football knowledge to use for the benefit of the club.
The prospect of Rangnick overseeing Mauricio Pochettino or Erik Ten Hag next summer is a potential dream scenario, if United can successfully plot the route to get there.
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