Ralf Rangnick has distanced Manchester United from signing Declan Rice or Erling Haaland in the upcoming summer transfer window.
If Man United fans are dreaming of a star-studded transfer window, they can think again. During a direct exchange in the Old Trafford car park, Rangnick all but ruled out United’s chances of splashing the cash this summer.
Often open and honest during interviews, it would seem that his candid approach stretches beyond press conferences. Having failed to click into gear as United boss, the pressure is building on Rangnick to deliver. Narrowly holding on to fourth place, Champions League football is not yet a formality for the Reds.
While their city rivals gear up for another Premier League title race, the red half of Manchester are wondering where it all went wrong. A powerhouse at the top of the table during the Alex Ferguson years, United’s decline has been sharp and fast.
Already knocked out of both domestic cup competitions, United’s trophy drought looks set to continue. Only the Champions League remains for the Reds, who face a tough second leg against Atletico Madrid.
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Having arrived in November to the sound of much fanfare, Rangnick has not yet lived up to expectations. Renowned for his high-pressing style of play, the United dressing room has struggled to adapt to the German’s philosophy.
A run of two wins from the last five Premier League outings has seen United lose their grip on fourth place. Should Arsenal win one of their three games in hand, the Reds will slip out of the top four and into the Europa League places. A desperate situation for a club that is used to challenging for titles.
Rangnick rules out Rice and Haaland signing for Man United
Regardless of what happens this season, United supporters will be expecting a big summer transfer window. There are clearly gaps across the side, with calls to sign both a holding midfielder and a striker. Two names on the supporters’ wishlist are Rice and Haaland, but Rangnick has ruled out the pair joining United.
Addressing a supporter after United’s 0-0 draw with Watford, Rangnick laughed off any chances of signing the duo:
“There are three big names we need to come in the summer, (Jules) Kounde, (Declan) Rice and (Erling) Haaland,” claimed the supporter.
Unimpressed by the suggestion, Rangnick replied: “What are you dreaming at night?”.
While easy to laugh at, it does offer an insight into the bleak reality of United’s situation. Once the prime destination for football’s hottest talents, the 20-time English champions no longer appeal to big-name players.
Having already spent over £650 million since they last lifted a trophy in 2016/17, throwing money at the problem has already proved unsuccessful for United. With Manchester City and Liverpool continuing to set the standards, the Reds risk falling further behind. While it may not be Rice or Haaland coming through the door this summer, improvements are necessary if United want to compete again.