Ralf Rangnick’s rebuild at Manchester United: Challenges and concerns

Alex Telles of Manchester United
Alex Telles of Manchester United / IMAGO

German manager Ralf Rangnick has a massive challenge ahead of him as he looks to take over at Manchester United and get their season back on track.

Despite having several talented players at their disposal, Manchester United are in need of a rebuild and it remains to be seen whether the 63-year-old German manager can mould them into a side capable of challenging for the major trophies.

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One of the major drawbacks for Manchester United is that they have lacked a proper direction under former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was relieved of his duties recently and Rangnick will have to introduce a set philosophy at the club first.

The German is known for high pressing attacking football and it remains to be seen whether he can implement his ideas at Old Trafford over the next six months.

One of the major challenges for Rangnick during this rebuild is the lack of time as he has been handed a six-month contract and that is simply not enough to reshape a club like Manchester United.

Furthermore, the players at his disposal are not well suited to his usual style of football and the manager might have to adapt his tactics in order to get the best out of his squad.

There is no doubt that Manchester United have the resources to back their new manager and strengthen the squad but Rangnick will have just one transfer window to switch things around and he’s unlikely to be able to make wholesale changes in January.

The Red Devils are in need of reinforcements all across the pitch, especially in defence and midfield.

The likes of Harry Maguire and Fred have not been able to live up to the expectations since their move to Old Trafford and Rangnick will have to improve the key positions in order to transform his side.

Another aspect of the rebuild under Ralf Rangnick will be to focus on the mentality and the approach from Manchester United.

The Red Devils have often been criticized for their lack of aggression and motivation after defeats and Rangnick will have to instil a siege mentality in the side and get them competing on a mental level first.

It remains to be seen how things unfold over the next few months but there is no doubt that Rangnick has the quality and the experience to navigate the challenges and make a lasting impression at Manchester United.

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