Ralf Rangnick finally awarded visa to become interim Man Utd boss
By Tom Gott
Ralf Rangnick has been awarded his work visa to take temporary control of Manchester United.
The German, who has been working as a director since 2019, had to convince the English FA that he deserves a permit after his spell away from the dugout meant he was not automatically eligible for a permit.
That was never expected to be a problem and was instead viewed simply as a delay, but Rob Dawson has now confirmed that the paperwork has all been finalised and Rangnick is free to take over at Old Trafford.
United are set to take on Arsenal on Thursday evening and, given the timing, Rangnick is not expected to be in charge of that game and will instead watch on from the dugout, with his first match as interim boss set to come against Crystal Palace at the weekend.
Rangnick is not expected to have any input on the game, despite rumours United coach Darren Fletcher was speaking to the German on a headset during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea.
Current caretaker Michael Carrick recently stressed that he is yet to have any real contact with Rangnick.
"No, it's pretty much as it was with the both games we've been to," Carrick said (via the club's official website) when asked about his contact with the incoming boss.
"Because of the process and the work permit, we haven't been able to, so we've carried on as we have done. It's worked well for the last two games and hopefully it will as well tomorrow."
Aside from leading the team until the summer, Rangnick will be given some input in the pursuit of a new permanent manager as he prepares to transition into a consultancy role at Old Trafford.
The former Red Bull chief will also be tasked with aiding United's transfer business in the summer and he is reported to have a hefty bonus written into his contract for if he can help the club sign Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland.