Ronaldo x Gegenpressing: coming soon
Ralf Rangnick is reportedly preparing to put the Manchester United squad to the test in training as he gets set to take over the underperforming squad.
The former RB Leipzig boss has agreed to become United’s interim manager for the remainder of the season, with an official announcement expected over the weekend.
It is expected that he will opt for a drastic change to United’s style of play, as well as changing their training regime and intensity they work at.
The German is known for demanding his players to press high up the pitch and improve their intensity when in possession, which would prove to be a clear contrast to the tactics and style used by former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The 63-year-old – who will take over from current caretaker boss Michael Carrick – is noted as one of the pioneers of ‘genenpressing’ – which is the art of winning the ball back as quickly as possible after losing possession.
Rangnick: "Gegenpressing is a very proactive style of football, similar to the way in which Dortmund and Liverpool have been playing under Klopp. We like to press high, with a very intense counter-pressure. When we have the ball, we do not like any square or back passes. [@espn]
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) November 25, 2021
During the Norwegian’s time at the helm, United would often defend deep in their own half and look to utilise the speed of their attackers on the counter-attack.
One of the main reasons why Solskjaer opted for that style of play was because of Cristiano Ronaldo’s role as the main striker, with doubts about the 36-year-old’s ability to press defenders consistently for 90 minutes.
Now, the Daily Telegraph are reporting that Rangnick is planning to install a countdown clock at United’s Carrington training complex which will time his players and force them to improve their pressing.
The report adds that the ex-Leipzig boss will demand that the ball is won back just eight seconds after it is lost, with the aim then to create a goalscoring opportunity within the following 10 seconds.
Due to work permit-related issues, the German boss will not be in charge for Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash away at Chelsea, however, he has already began to analyse the United squad having been given footage of the team, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Rangnick won the DFB-Pokal during his time with Schalke and has also claimed two Bundesliga runners-up medals.
Related links:
- Man Utd players ‘unimpressed’ at not receiving WhatsApp updates on Rangnick
- Ralf Rangnick agrees deal to become interim manager at Manchester United
- Louis Saha backs “unplayable” Anthony Martial to play crucial role in Man Utd return to form
