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MANCHESTER – Old Trafford’s interim boss Ralf Rangnick has assigned first-team coach Mike Phelan with the task of unifying the Manchester United dressing room as rumours of discontent continue to emerge from within the club following their first-time loss under the German to Wolves on Tuesday, according to The Daily Mirror.
As morale at Carrington is at a new low and divisions are beginning to form, Rangnick is concerned about the body language of his players, who have failed to progress on last season’s second place finish.
In an attempt to improve the atmosphere, the interim boss had recruited sports psychologist Sascha Lense but such moves have not worked out.
Since Rangnick arrived, United have only won three of their six games with the tactician seemingly unable to implement any of the ideas for which he is renowned.
Luke Shaw, who spoke candidly after the recent Wolves defeat, questioned the motivation of the group.
In an effort to address the current state of affairs, The Daily Star reported that Rangnick had asked Phelan to speak − both collectively and individually − to the United squad.
Having worked as number two under Sir Alex Ferguson and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Phelan – who recently signed a new contract at Old Trafford − continues to remain close with key individuals.
On the other hand, Rangnick has brought in new coaches to assist him alongside Phelan, whose position has been cast into doubt as a result.
However, the 59-year-old must now play a role in helping the squad get back on track as they languish in seventh.
Rangnick, who inherited a raft of problems from the tail-end of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign, is seeking harmony as well as a clear style of playing at Old Trafford.
He claimed after his first defeat that the situation in Manchester has not surprised him.
“I knew it would be difficult,” said Rangnick.
“That’s the reason they brought me. I knew it wouldn’t be easy to find a balance between offence and defence.
“Today, we showed similar problems the team have had three or four weeks ago before I arrived. It is not an easy job to develop a DNA with and without the ball. The game today showed there are still quite a few steps to go.”
Rangnick’s system has come under fire from some pundits with his 4-2-2-2 formation failing to lead to an upturn in performances.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s comeback also continues to split opinion despite his goal return.
As such, several players could consider exits with the transfer window this month and fringe stars, such as Donny van de Beek, may be among them. – Agencies, January 6, 2022