It's the beginning of the new era in Manchester United as the English super club officially announced Ralf Rangnick as interim manager. Though, in reality, Rangnick will be much more than an interim. What happens if United's results under Rangnick lead to a surprising confirmation at the end of the season and he takes over permanently? That's a question we'll be pondering throughout his six-month tenure at Old Trafford.
Even if that doesn't happen, a role as a consultant for the board, one which would last until June of 2024 was agreed upon and announced on Monday. The consulting part of the arrangement isn't a small thing. Rangnick is a man of great vision who loves to work with an eye on the future. Without the long term consultancy part of the arrangement, the 63-year-old German tactician would not have considered accepting the interim job at Manchester United. With that out of the way, he is now excited about what's to come with this new opportunity.
On the list for the future manager, Rangnick will have decision-making power along with the other board members. Mauricio Pochettino remains the most popular name on their Manchester United list, along with Erik ten Hag and Brendan Rodgers who have always been admired by the club. So much will depend on Paris Saint-Germain and their Champions League performances which will play a large part in determining Pochettino's future with his current club from June onwards. On the other hand, Luis Enrique will not be on the list, as he's determined to stay with Spain until the 2022 World Cup is completed.
Managers staying at AC Milan and River Plate
Let's stick with the topic of coaches. AC Milan have announced the signing of Stefano Pioli new contract until June 2023. The new deal is signed which includes a €3 million net per season salary and an option to extend until 2024. Marcelo Gallardo is also remaining after leading Argentine champion River Plate in another sparkling season. Behind the scenes, his name was on the Barcelona list when the club was considering sacking Ronald Koeman in October, together with Roberto Martinez. Joan Laporta then chose to prioritize bringing Xavi Hernandez home.
Chelsea working on renewals for defenders
In the Premier League, Chelsea are working on the contracts front:. They're patiently waiting for news on Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. Thiago Silva, meanwhile, is delighted with his life in London and the club wants to offer him a new extension until 2023. The agreement is close, and it's now just considered a matter of time.
Barcelona not pursuing Liverpool's Thiago
Thiago Alcantara, on the other hand, has been on fire with Liverpool as of late, despite rumors of a return to Barcelona. The Catalan club considers Thiago a magnificent player, but has never initiated any negotiations or calls to the player or to Liverpool. He's prepared and determined to fight for Reds after difficult times because of some injuries.
Dybala, Brozovic close in on extensions
In Italy, Paulo Dybala will soon sign his new contract until June 2026 with Juventus. The agreement is reached, with an expected salary of €10 million per year. Inter have advanced in negotiations with Marcelo Brozovic, who's an excellent midfielder with the contract expiring in June 2022; the extension is closer, while there are no longer any doubts about the imminent arrival of André Onana. Ajax's Cameroonian goalkeeper will sign for Inter but will only arrive at the end of the season, as a free agent.