Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick faces yet another problem after learning that the Old Trafford board might not sanction any transfers this month, according to reports. The German only replaced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the end of November but has already suffered several setbacks as he seeks to improve the Red Devils’ performances. United threw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Aston Villa on Saturday night in another disappointing result.
In just under two months in charge, Rangnick has experienced a COVID-19 outbreak, reports of player discontent with his style, a run of underwhelming performances, and suggestions that talismanic forward Cristiano Ronaldo does not fit into his system.
The German started with successive 1-0 victories over Crystal Palace and Norwich but the displays were not a huge improvement on those under his predecessor.
United were then fortunate to earn a point against relegation-threatened Newcastle before their best display under Rangnick in their 3-1 win against Burnley.
Wolves inflicted Rangnick’s first defeat a few days later and it has been clear that the 63-year-old has a major task putting the club back on track.
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It has been suggested that he might make a couple of additions in the January transfer window, especially to aid the transition to a more high-energy style of football.
However, he might struggle to do so after learning that United are not prepared to back him with a transfer budget this month.
According to the Mirror, the club’s hierarchy are unsure about handing millions to a manager who will only be in charge for a further five months.
It will raise further questions over why United chose to appoint an interim boss instead of trying to secure one of their top targets on a long-term deal.
It may then baffle some supporters that he will not be given funds, given that he could play a major role in rebuilding the squad even beyond his spell in the dugout.
On Friday, Rangnick admitted that he is not involved in transfer talks with director of football John Murtough, chief executive Ed Woodward and managing director Richard Arnold.
He said: “We had some talks about transfers last week, with John Murtough, Ed and Richard. We spoke about it, but I am not involved in that directly.”
Arnold is set to replace Woodward in February but is expected to take a much less hands-on interest in the football side of the operation than his predecessor.
