Following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, there have been many questions as to who would take over with the leadership of Manchester United. With Ralf Rangnick stepping into the role as interim manager, how will this affect Man U’s performance throughout the rest of the season?
Solskjaer Leaves
Anyone used to checking Premier League betting odds will know, it is not unusual to see Manchester United as favourites for the majority of game in which they play. However, their performances have rarely reflected this in recent months, even on the occasions they do manage to pull a win out of the bag.
Of course, much of this success, or otherwise, will often be tied to the manager. Though many Manchester United managers have been successful in the Premier League, all have had trouble following the legacy of Sir Alex Ferguson.
As a player, Solskjaer is a legend at the club having graced the pitch at Old Trafford himself. He even managed to take the team to third and then second place across successive seasons where Manchester City and Liverpool played exceptionally. The rivalry between these three clubs is well-documented, and Solskjaer helped to prove that he was able to keep the team competitive.
However, a recent dismal run left him in danger. Amongst this came defeats at the hands of both Liverpool and City. This made the United hierarchy nervous, and a 4-1 defeat to Watford was the nail in the coffin.
Solskjaer was gone, and Michael Carrick was promoted temporarily as caretaker-manager.
Rangnick’s Expertise
Rangnick has been brought on to manage the team until June. He will then stay with the club for a further two years in a consultancy role.
With a history of overseeing, in one role or another, some of the best football teams in Europe, he should be able to take on the challenge that comes with Manchester United.
The German has managed many top teams in the Bundesliga and other European leagues and has helped to collect several UEFA Champions League titles. He is credited with developing the tactic of counter-pressing along with Liverpool’s Jürgen Klopp, and was an influence for Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel.
He has proven himself time and time again in his various roles. but hasn’t coached for some time, but he could still give Manchester United the boost they need. Though many other greats of European football have attempted to steer the helm of this club, he could be the one to guide them to victory once more.
United Future
There is no denying that Manchester United need to whip themselves into shape if they are to succeed in the Premier League and beyond. Even the addition of Cristiano Ronaldo has caused some issues. While there is no denying that he is still the powerhouse he has always been, some fans are concerned that he is not gelling with the team in the way he should be.
As always, United have some of the top players in world football on their side at the moment. Rangnick might be just the coach needed to get them into shape and have them playing at their full potential once more.
Many coaches can only dream of a team with the calibre that we see currently in Manchester. With the right manager behind them, they could be capable of some great things.
Rangnick’s appointment to Manchester United is sure to cause a stir, and it will be fantastic to see what he is capable of in the future. He has all the building blocks he needs to be able to deliver greatness – both in terms of the team and his own expertise. With a little luck and a lot of hard work, we should see him guide Manchester United back to the position that they should occupy in English and European football.