Ralf Rangnick 'set to be announced as Austria manager'

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 28 April 2022

Ralf Rangnick is reportedly set to be announced as the next manager of Austria within the next 24 to 48 hours, but will remain at Manchester United in his consultancy role.

Ralf Rangnick is reportedly set to be announced as the next manager of the Austria national team within the next 24 to 48 hours, but will remain at Manchester United in his consultancy role.

The 63-year-old succeeded Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in November last year and agreed to take charge of the first team on an interim basis until the summer, before taking a consultancy role for the next two seasons.

Last week, Erik ten Hag was appointed as Man United's new manager ahead the 2022-23 campaign, with Rangnick set to remain at the club in his advisory role, working for six days a month across the next two years.

According to Sky Sports News, Rangnick has now been approached by the Austrian FA, who view the German as their preferred candidate to take charge of the national team, and an executive committee meeting will be held on Friday morning before an announcement of his appointment to follow within the next 24 to 48 hours.

The report adds that Rangnick is willing to combine his Man United advisory duties with the Austria job, and although he is yet to sign a contract to become their next manager, only minor details need to be negotiated before an announcement can be made.

Speaking to Sky Sports News after United's 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Thursday night, Rangnick refused to be drawn on speculation surrounding his future, stating: "Austria role? I'm more than happy to help Manchester United. I can confirm I will definitely continue with Man United and the consultancy role".

Rangnick has won just 10 of his 25 games in interim charge of Man United, and the Red Devils currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, five points behind fourth-placed Arsenal who have two games in hand.