Ralf Rangnick’s first Manchester United press conference

Manchester United have unveiled Ralf Rangnick as their new manager for the remainder of the season. The 63-year-old was in the press room to face the media for the first time as part of Manchester United recently. And here is what he had to say. 

First, he was asked about the situation of the club and his opinions on it: 

‘The club has had no continuity in signing new players and sticking to the DNA of the club,’ he said. ‘In the future, the board members and my self have the same opinion. It’s important not to have many changes in management.’

Next, the conference flowed to his ambitions as the manager of such a prestigious club. 

‘We are still in the Champions League and can hopefully get further in that competition. The DNA of the club is clear.

‘I have, of course, watched all the most recent games, even before contact from the club. I’m pretty well aware of what’s happening here, and in the Premier League. It’s clear the team have abundantly talented players.  

‘The major target for me is to bring more balance into the team. Even yesterday we conceded two goals and needed three to win the game. We’re conceding too much. It’s my approach to help the team, to get more balance. 

‘[The squad] is definitely good enough to compete in the top [four]. The top three are very stable, and have great coaches. This is something we have to develop. When Jurgen came to Liverpool, the squad he inherited was not a better one than what I have now at Manchester United.’ 

The topic of Cristiano Ronaldo of course came into the conversation. There have been many people questioning the 36-year-old’s ability to adapt to a high-pressing coach like Ralf Rangnick. 

‘You always have to adapt your style to fit the players,’ Rangnick said. ‘He is an amazing, top professional. At his age, I have not seen a player who is still that physically fit. 

‘It’s about how we can develop the whole team, not just Cristiano. We play in the most competitive league in the world. All his team-mates will have to do the same.’ 

In keeping with his style of play, he said: ‘Yes, I think to gain control in future games, you have to play proactively. It’s about helping the team play together, team spirit. 

‘Yesterday, if you compare the two halves it was completely different. Having these unique fans behind us helps… you could see in the second half. It’s not easy and I cannot do that within one or two training sessions, or one or two weeks, but it’s about control. That’s the major target.’

Ralf Rangnick spoke about the possibility of extending his stay at the club as well. ‘They have been very clear about a six-and-a-half month role… I may recommend they continue working with me for one more year,’ he said. 

The German also revealed that he had a two-hour phone call with Michael Carrick. But the former United player decided to step down from coaching with the arrival of the new boss, in hopes of taking a well-deserved break from football. Rangnick is expected be in the dugout against Crystal Palace this weekend, after receiving his work permit. 

Quotes via The Daily Mail.