Nagelsmann believes Rangnick is worth a longer deal as Man Utd move nears

Julian Nagelsmann would like Ralf Rangnick to be handed a long-term role at Manchester United amid widespread reports the experienced coach is to become the club’s interim manager.

Rangnick, 63, only took over as Lokomotiv Moscow’s head of sports and development earlier this year following an eight-season spell across various roles at RB Leipzig.

But the former Stuttgart and Schalke coach, who is credited for influencing some of football’s brightest minds, appears set to join United as interim manager following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure.

Nagelsmann and Rangnick’s careers crossed paths at Leipzig between 2019 and 2021, with the latter acting as head of sport and development for RedBullGMBH following his director of football role at both Red Bull Salzburg and the Bundesliga side.

Now Bayern Munich head coach Nagelsmann, whose high-pressing philosophy largely resembles Rangnick’s preferred approach, believes his compatriot will be a hit at United.

Asked about his mentor’s potential appointment at Old Trafford, Nagelsmann said: “I think it’s cool. I also wrote to him. I think I wrote ‘cool’.

“I’m happy for him. He’s an excellent trainer.”

While the 34-year-old was pleased with the Red Devils’ reported move, he explained he would like to see Rangnick offered a longer deal as United are set to search for a permanent solution at the end of the season.

“I would like him to be a coach longer than until the summer,” he continued. “From Man United’s point of view, congratulations.”

Reports have suggested United will look to appoint Rangnick on a consultancy basis after his time as interim boss is up.

Mauricio Pochettino has been touted as United’s preferred option to take over next year, though Paris Saint-Germain have insisted the Argentine is staying put.

United face Chelsea on Sunday, with Rangnick’s appointment expected to have gone through by that stage. However, Michael Carrick is set to be in charge for the trip to Stamford Bridge.

Stepping things up ahead of our trip to the capital #MUFC | #CHEMUN pic.twitter.com/pcgQIOQkfU

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 26, 2021