Ralf Rangnick leaves Manchester United after consultancy role is abandoned

German manager who took temporary charge in November was to remain at club as adviser

Former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick is Austria's new manager. Photograph: Erwin Scheriau/APA/AFP via Getty

Ralf Rangnick has left Manchester United, with the former interim manager stating he will not continue in a consultancy role as previously agreed with the club.

The German, who took temporary charge of United in late November, was to remain at the club on a two-year deal, as an adviser to Erik ten Hag, the No 1.

But, after taking over as Austria coach, Rangnick revealed he has left the club during a media conference in his new role.

In a statement United said: “We would like to thank Ralf Rangnick for his efforts as interim manager over the past six months.

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“By mutual agreement, Ralf will now focus solely on his new role as manager of the Austria national team and will not therefore be taking up a consultancy role at Old Trafford.

“We would like to wish Ralf the best of luck in this next chapter of his career.”

It is understood that Rangnick’s departure is by mutual consent and that the club is thankful for his contribution after taking over from Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who was sacked following a plunge in results and performances from the team.

Rangnick took United to a record low Premier League points total of 58 — six worse off than ever before — and failed to secure a Champions League berth after finishing sixth. The team, who play in the Europa League next season, also finished with zero goal difference. — Guardian