Ralf Rangnick has officially taken up the position of coaching the Austrian national team, stepping down from his duties as Manchester United’s interim manager. 

In a statement, he said, “I will take over as national team manager of Austria at the end of the season but will continue my consultancy with Manchester United.” Rangnick continued, “I’m really looking forward to playing my part in helping United become a real force again.” 

With the German stepping down, United will see former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag taking the reins at the Old Trafford club. The Red Devils have also confirmed that Rangnick’s contract with Austria is for two years, but he’ll be combining these responsibilities with his role as a consultant. 

Also Read | PL: Pep Guardiola says Manchester City ‘need points’ ahead of Leeds clash

Peter Schöttel, the sporting director of Austrian FA, added, “After a very well-founded and intensive process, we were able to win Ralf Rangnick, an absolute top man with a great international reputation as team boss. It makes me very proud and really looking forward to working together.”

The national side has upcoming Nations League games in June, against Croatia, Denmark and France. The 63-year-old is also excited about the new prospect, and said, “It’s an honour for me to take on the role. I’m particularly excited about the prospect of contesting the European Championships in Germany with a young team hungry for success.” 

Also Read | Klopp on Mane, Salah staying on at Liverpool: It’s their own life

Rangnick has previous experience with Austrian football, having been a sporting director for eight years with the Red Bull group, at which time he was overseeing recruitment at Salzburg. 

The nation ranked 34th in world football has failed to qualify for the upcoming World Cup. 

Manchester United next face Brentford and will be looking to do better than their last few performances that saw Liverpool and Arsenal get the better of the Old Trafford side, while Chelsea dominated but couldn’t finish as well, resulting in a 1-1 draw.