Clear edge from the record national player: Lothar Matthäus is critical of Ralf Rangnick’s future double function as national coach of Austria and advisor to Manchester United.
“First of all, I don’t necessarily think it’s good that you do two jobs. Even Ralf Rangnick, who I appreciate as a specialist, should focus on one job,” emphasized the 61-year-old in an interview with “Sky”.
Matthäus continued: “I wouldn’t have done that now as Austria. They had other options, they had national candidates on their list.”
Rangnick got a two-year contract from the Austrian association, the goal is the EM 2024 in Germany. If the qualification succeeds, the contract of the 63-year-old former Bundesliga coach will be automatically extended until the 2026 World Cup.
In May, the outgoing Manchester United interim coach will start working for the ÖFB. In future he will be available for six days a month in Manchester.
“If he can reconcile that – and Austria accepts it – then that’s something I don’t want to get in the way,” commented Matthäus on the decision.
Neville also criticizes Rangnick’s dual role
Former English star defender Gary Neville had previously shared his skepticism.
“The Manchester United sporting director or agent can really look at Austrian players week in and week out? And then pick them for the national team?” Neville asked on his Sky Sports podcast.
There is a conflict, said the former Man United professional: “The Austrian national team has pride, a great country and some great players, so he has to watch players all week, then he will see them in September, October, November and March practice for two weeks. Then what happens with his work for United? Where’s the priority?”
Neville described the constellation as “chaotic” and referred to the major sporting problems of the English record champions.