Former Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has confirmed his commitment to continue as Austria manager. This announcement comes despite recent negotiations with Bayern Munich.
Rangnick, 65, was in talks with Bayern Munich earlier this week and was expected to replace Thomas Tuchel in Bavaria. However, he has now decided to stay on as Austrian national team manager. He will lead Austria at this summer's European Championships in Germany and is expected to fulfil his contract that runs until 2026.
Bayern Munich has not announced any other potential managerial candidates after Rangnick’s decision. Interestingly, he is the second manager after Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso who removed himself from consideration for the role at Bayern.
Alonso led his Bayer Leverkusen side to end Bayern's bid for an 11th consecutive Bundesliga title this season.
It's not been the best season at the Allianz Arena. However, the Munich club managed a draw in their Champions League semi-final first leg against Real Madrid on Tuesday and are two games away from winning the biggest trophy of them all.
Nonetheless, the current sporting structure and turmoil off the pitch at the club seem to be putting off potential new managers, with Rangnick the latest to turn down an offer.
Austria manager, Ralf Rangnick, said:
"I am the Austrian team boss with all my heart."
"I would like to expressly emphasise that this is not a rejection of FC Bayern, but rather a decision for my team and our common goals."
Rangnick had a six-month stint as Manchester United's interim manager during the 2021-22 season before taking over at Austria. His managerial career also includes successful spells at Ulm, Stuttgart, Hannover, Hoffenheim, Schalke and RB Leipzig.
With Rangnick committed firmly towards leading Austria at Euro 2024 and beyond, at least until his contract expires in 2026, it will be interesting to keep an eye on how things unfold back at Bayern Munich.
For football fans, these developments provide exciting prospects both on the field and off it. The managerial decisions at Bayern Munich will undoubtedly significantly impact the team's performance, while Rangnick's continued leadership of Austria promises to bring interesting dynamics to Euro 2024.
