Thomas Hein
Ralf Rangnick has been named the new Manchester United manager on an interim basis. Immediately, attention has turned to his style of play, potential new signings and what he can achieve between now and the end of the season. Of course, the German, who is known for spotting talent, will want to strengthen in the next few months, but will he necessarily have to look further than United’s Carrington training base?
Rangnick, 63, may only be in the Old Trafford hot seat for six months or so, but he wants to get the ball rolling and the club moving in the right direction between then and now. There are undoubtedly areas of the team and squad which need strengthening, be it via an injection of quality, youth, energy or a combination of all these components. And to fit the former RB Leipzig’s famed gegenpressing style of play, these are elements that could be a minimum requirement.
United added the likes of Raphael Varane, Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo to their ranks this summer for a combined total of over £100 million. So while Rangnick has form for being a talent spotter, he could look closer to home in a move that would fit with the club’s traditions. And, with prestigious companies such as Entain, who own amongst others, the renowned PartyCasino, heavily investing in grassroots projects, it makes a lot of sense to capitalise.
Yes, it would be easy for Rangnick to go out and splash a bit more cash, and United chiefs would probably back him, but after several under 23 players began training with the first team recently, it could be one, two or more of these who get the opportunity to impress. And, you’d imagine the high octane football the German coach will attempt to nurture will suit them down to the ground. So, who could be in line for a shot?
Amad Diallo
Amad Diallo, 19, is arguably the player who is most likely to get a chance to impress Rangnick, even though he was due to leave Old Trafford on loan in the summer before an injury saw the move collapse. Signed from Atalanta in January, Diallo has already made a handful of senior appearances for United, and his versatility to play down either flank could be key.
Anthony Elanga
Anthony Elanga, like Diallo, is nineteen years old and plays as a winger primarily. Many will suggest that due to the fee paid for Diallo, Elanga is naturally behind him and others waiting for an opportunity. However, in the Premier League 2, the Swede has managed to score four and assist two in eight games. He’s also performed well in the UEFA Youth League. And all this has happened while Diallo has been injured.
Hannibal Mejbri
A lot has been said about United lacking in the middle of the park, which could open the door for the incredibly highly-rated Hannibal Mejbri to come into Rangnick’s thinking. The eighteen-year-old has featured in the Premier League 2, UEFA Youth League, and the EFL Trophy this season and is destined for great things. He’s made the breakthrough at the international level for Tunisia, so his next break should naturally be at Old Trafford.
