Ralf Rangnick urges Man Utd to focus on finding “future top star players”

Ralf Rangnick believes Manchester United need to find and develop “future top star players” as the interim manager prepares to transition into an advisory role.

The 63-year-old is set to fail in his objective of leading the stuttering Red Devils to Champions League qualification but still hopes to leave a lasting legacy at Old Trafford.

Rangnick will switch from United’s interim boss to a consultancy role in the summer – a job that will run in tandem with his new position as manager of Austria’s national team.

The German has an impressive track record of developing teams, recently succeeding with RB Leipzig and sister club RB Salzburg, and believes transfers are key to providing incoming boss Erik ten Hag that platform to succeed.

“For me, the most important bit is recruitment now,” Rangnick said when asked what he will be advising on.

“This is, for me, the most vital point, that we bring in the best possible players and speak about that, who could that be.

“It’s not only identifying those players but meeting them, convincing them to join this club, even though we will not be playing in the Champions League.

“This is what I see as the most important bit. Again, also, with regard to top talented players for the academy, identifying those kind of players.

“We spoke about Mason Greenwood. He was probably one of the most talented players in the last couple of years. This is, for me, again right now for the next one or two years the most important part.”

Asked if United can go back to buying players at the peak of their powers, Rangnick said: “My personal opinion is that the club should try to find future top star players and develop them.

“Again, on the other hand, just tell me five players that might be some of those