Ralf Rangnick has refused to comment on speculation that Erik ten Hag is set to be named the next Manchester United manager.
Reports surfaced earlier this week that the Ajax boss is the preferred candidate to be the club’s next permanent manager, having interviewed for the role last month. Rangnick reportedly beat out Mauricio Pochettino who was also said to be in the frame to be the long-term replacement for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was sacked at the end of 2021.
Rangnick was appointed as interim manager shortly after Solskjaer’s dismissal, tasked with overseeing the Red Devils’ fortunes until the end of the season. There had been suggestions that the 63-year-old could stay on into next season, but a run of poor form has put paid to that possibility.
Rangnick has offered somewhat of an update on the situation, revealing that a number of “top managers and coaches” including Ten Hag have been in talks with the club, although he stopped short of stating that the Dutchman is set for the job.
“This is the press conference for tomorrow’s game and I don’t intend to speak about any new managers here,” Rangnick told reporters. “I know all of the managers with whom the club have so far spoken to are top managers and top coaches - if this includes Erik ten Hag, it is also true with him.
“That’s all that I can say at this stage, for me, it is all about preparing for the team for tomorrow’s game and hopefully three points.”
Asked about his role in the hiring of the new boss, Rangnick - who is set to take on a consultancy role at the end of the season - added: “I know which coaches they have spoken with so far and that’s why I can say that all of the coaches they have spoken to are top coaches.”
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In matters on the pitch, United face Everton at Goodison Park with both sides desperate for three points in their respective battles at the top and bottom of the Premier League. Rangnick’s side know they must win to keep the pressure on the sides rivalling them for a top-four berth, whilst the Toffees’ relegation fears were significantly heightened by the midweek defeat at Burnley.
Rangnick added: “For tomorrow, it's definitely the most important part. Character, energy and commitment, winning the game in the atmosphere that will be probably pretty similar to the one at Leeds.
“We're all aware of the importance of the game for both sides. For me, game plan and tactics is one thing for tomorrow, but probably the most important thing is mentality and attitude."
The German tactician confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo, who missed out on last weekend’s dour draw with Everton, is due to come back in, but he is set to be without injured quartet Luke Shaw, Edinson Cavani, Raphael Varane and Scott McTominay.
