Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha believes Ralf Rangnick must aim to build a correct squad with the right attitude in order to further his progress as manager.
Rangnick, who took over from departing boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last month, is yet to taste defeat as interim boss, with United still competing on three fronts as they enter the festive period.
Although United received some criticism following their recent 1-0 win over strugglers Norwich last weekend, Saha believes fans must judge Rangnick on how he helps shapes the club moving forward beyond the end of the season.
It remains to be seen whether Rangnick will remain at the helm past his initial six month contract, with the German leaving open the possibility of staying on, despite agreeing a two-year consultancy role from the summer.
“Results will tell. I think that’s the nature of the game,'' Saha said, as he spoke exclusively to Gambling.com.
''If you see players getting comfortable with him and results are going their way, then yes, you could see him staying in the position beyond the summer. If the results are right and they win a cup – maybe even the Champions League – then who knows.
“But I definitely think he’ll be a part of a long-term project. I don’t think the Premier League title is reachable this year, so it’s about building a strong squad, full of people committed to the club. That will be the most important thing.”
“The top four is still possible, a big run of wins can get United back in there. That would be a great way to recover the season.
United will face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16 and are looking to progress to the quarter-finals for the first time since 2019, with Saha quietly confident about their chances.
''Even if United were to get to the Champions League semi-final or final, I think that would be a real boost and a sign of progress. A trophy and top four would be an ideal way to finish a difficult season, added Saha.
“But the real target is to see a big improvement in the team and to get some consistency and the right attitude to win trophies.”
We’ve teamed up with LiveScore to invite fans to vote for their favourite results - the games which were much more than a score. Vote for the match that mattered to you here .
