Demba Ba emphasizes that Manchester United let down former interim manager Ralf Rangnick by neglecting to consider his four-player transfer shortlist.
Former Chelsea and Newcastle striker Demba Ba, 38, who had a mentoring relationship with Ralf Rangnick during his time as interim manager at Manchester United, reveals that he was considered for a role at the club under Rangnick. Unfortunately, work permit issues prevented this from materializing.
Despite Rangnick not being retained after his interim stint, Ba argues that he was left unsupported by the United hierarchy.
According to Ba, Rangnick submitted a list of potential transfer targets in January 2022, including players like Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland, who have since become established stars with significant transfer fees.
However, these recommendations were reportedly disregarded by the United hierarchy, including then-executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.
Demba Ba shares insights about his ongoing connection with Ralf Rangnick, stating, “I speak from time to time with Ralf still.
He is not a guy who reaches out; he keeps you in his heart from afar. Amazing guy.” Ba defends Rangnick against the perception of failure at Manchester United, asserting that he was “set up to fail.”
Ba sheds light on the substantial list of players Rangnick recommended to Manchester United in January 2022, including Josko Gvardiol, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Enzo Fernandez, now at Chelsea.
Ba suggests that despite Rangnick diagnosing the club’s issues, the governance and setup at United were not conducive to success.
Despite the initial agreement for Ralf Rangnick to transition into a consultancy role alongside Manchester United’s next permanent manager, this plan did not materialize when Erik ten Hag was appointed ahead of the summer of 2022.
Since Ten Hag’s tenure began, Manchester United has faced criticism for a series of subpar signings, including players well-known to the Dutch manager from his time in the Eredivisie.
The club’s recruitment strategy is slated for a thorough review following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a 25% stake.
With Ineos assuming control of sporting operations at Old Trafford, changes are expected in the approach to player acquisitions.
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