Man United are close to confirming the appointment of Ralf Rangnick as their interim manager until the end of the season.
The experienced German manager will take over for the rest of the season and then move into a ‘consultancy role’ for 2 years after that.
Rangnick is expected to ring in several changes at Old Trafford and implement a ‘high press style’ that he believes in.
The gaffer could also change up United’s formation and shape to ensure the Red Devils have a strong finish to the season.
Option 1: Shift to 4-3-3
Rangnick is expected to change the team’s formation in games and could revert to a classic 4-3-3. However, this wouldn’t see anyone operating as a lone defensive-midfielder, but the three-man midfield working in tandem.
The trio of Bruno Fernandes, Donny van de Beek, and Fred could thrive under Rangnick. All three players are energetic ones who can press high up if needed. They could support Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and Cristiano Ronaldo – who will also be expected to work harder with their pressing.
Raphael Varane might be injured right now, but he’ll probably be a mainstay in the team upon recovering. Rangnick will need to play the players most comfortable on the ball to make his counter-attacking style work and this shape seems suitable for the Red Devils to do so.
Option 2: Similar to his RB Leipzig style
At RB Leipzig, Rangnick used to deploy a formation of 4-2-2-2. It would force the players to stay quite narrow and encourage the full-backs to attack to stretch the play. This was basically done so the players are close to each other and can press as a unit, causing opponents to make mistakes.
The German gaffer could revert to this interesting formation with the kind of players he has at United. In this, Rashford and Ronaldo would probably operate as the front-2. Fernandes would hover in the no.10 cum left-wing role, while Sancho can also play in a more narrow position.
Alongside the energetic Fred, Paul Pogba could also find a place after returning from injury. Pogba has the creativity and reactionary timing to send his teammates through on goal during counter-attacks.
Rangnick could also opt to rotate Harry Maguire with Victor Lindelof at times – after Varane’s returned. This would keep things fresh and help United maintain high intensity during all the games.
