Leaving us now is like leaving the club in it hard time,I wish you the very best in your career ahead”, Bruno Fernandez Broke down in tears in an emotional farewell message as £50m Man United star set to depart Old Trafford today – farewell champion

Ralf Rangnick’s tenure as interim manager at Manchester United, following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s departure, was marked by high expectations and eventual mutual frustration. Initially brought in to transition into a consultancy role after the season, Rangnick’s stint exemplified the phrase “right man, wrong job.” It was a period of discord and unfulfilled potential for both him and the club.

As the 2021/22 season progressed, it became evident that Rangnick’s strategic approach did not seamlessly align with the team’s dynamics. Despite his tactical acumen and vision to reshape Manchester United’s playing style, the synergy between his methods and the players was lacking. The anticipated consultancy role for incoming permanent manager Erik ten Hag never materialized, as Rangnick departed under mutual agreement with the club.

However, Rangnick’s subsequent role as manager of the Austrian national team has told a different story. Here, he has been able to effectively implement his strategies, even with a squad less individually talented than Manchester United’s. The Austrian team has shown cohesion and discipline, embodying Rangnick’s philosophy on the pitch. This success has prompted reflections on whether Manchester United’s struggles were more about player compatibility than Rangnick’s managerial abilities alone.

Euro 2024 has provided a stage for Rangnick to further prove his capabilities. Austria’s performances have been praised for their organization and tactical discipline, qualities notably lacking during Rangnick’s time at Manchester United. Rio Ferdinand, a vocal commentator on football matters, highlighted Austria’s cohesive play in contrast to Manchester United’s disjointed performances under various managers, including Erik ten Hag.

Ferdinand’s observations resonated deeply within the football community, underscoring the stark difference between well-coached teams and those struggling with unity and strategy. Manchester United’s challenges under ten Hag, compounded by persistent injuries and inconsistent performances, raised questions about the team’s ability to execute a coherent game plan.

Despite moments of brilliance, such as their FA Cup Final victory over City, Manchester United often failed to exhibit the collective understanding and tactical discipline seen in successful teams. Critics pointed to individual shortcomings and systemic issues within the squad that hindered sustained success.

In hindsight, Rangnick’s tenure at Manchester United serves as a microcosm of the complexities in football management. His departure left unresolved questions about whether a different set of players could have translated his strategic vision into on-field success. Meanwhile, his achievements with Austria underscore his credentials as a coach capable of forging a cohesive unit from modest resources.

Ultimately, the debate around Rangnick’s time at Manchester United revolves around more than just his suitability for the job. It questions the broader dynamics of player-manager relationships, team cohesion, and the intricate balance required to achieve success at the highest levels of football. As Rangnick continues to thrive with Austria, his story serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of football management and the enduring quest for the right alignment of talent, strategy, and leadership.