Ralf Rangnick takes another jab at Manchester United, reiterating his critique of the club’s need for ‘open-heart surgery.’

Ralf Rangnick asserts that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s recent statements affirm his earlier criticisms of the club.

Rangnick managed United on an interim basis for six months during the 2021-22 season.

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Under his leadership, United qualified for the Europa League, but they concluded the season with only 58 points, two fewer than the previous year, which saw them finish in a disappointing eighth place.

Despite a surprise FA Cup win against Manchester City keeping Ten Hag in his position, he faces mounting pressure after two losses in their opening three Premier League games this season.

The latest setback was a 3-0 defeat at the hands of their historic rivals, Liverpool, leaving Ten Hag and his squad needing a strong response after the international break against Southampton.

Having observed United’s ongoing difficulties since his departure, Rangnick feels justified in his previous statements regarding the necessity for a significant overhaul within the club.

‘I probably made those comments towards the end of the season about two years ago,’ Rangnick shared with TV2.

‘Only a few weeks ago, Erik ten Hag addressed similar concerns, stating that my analysis was correct. I’m not sure how many players have been signed since, but it appears that I was indeed right.’

Rangnick made his ‘open heart surgery’ remarks following a heavy 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in April 2022.

The German manager believed that United’s struggles were not solely due to the managerial situation but rather the need for significant internal changes.

‘One positive is that the situation is clear,’ Rangnick commented.

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‘You don’t even need glasses to see the issues at hand. The focus now should be on how to tackle them, not just minor adjustments. This requires a major overhaul. If everyone recognizes this and collaborates, it won’t have to take years.’

Rangnick confidently suggested that such transformation could occur ‘within one year,’ and noted that rivals have successfully revamped their squads ‘within three transfer windows.’

Although he wasn’t offered a permanent managerial position, Rangnick was initially set to remain with United in a consultancy role.

However, plans fell through when he accepted the role of head coach for Austria in April 2022.

Currently overseeing Austria, Rangnick led the team to the Round of 16 at Euro 2024, marking their best performance in the European Championships.

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