Ralf Rangnick's Bayern Munich U-turn could impact Erik ten Hag's Manchester United future

Former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has confirmed he will stay as Austria manager - despite strong speculation linking him with a move to Bayern Munich.

Reports suggested that the 65-year-old, who spent six months in charge at Old Trafford during the 2021/22 season as an interim manager, was negotiating a deal with the Bundesliga club earlier this week in order to replace Thomas Tuchel, who is leaving his post at the end of the season.

However, Rangnick is now set to lead Austria at this summer's European Championships in Germany. He is also expected to stay for the remainder of his contract, which expires in 2026.

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"I am the Austrian team boss with all my heart," he confirmed in a statement released on Thursday morning. "I really enjoy this task and am determined to successfully continue on our chosen path."

He continued: "I would like to expressly emphasise that this is not a rejection of FC Bayern, but rather a decision for my team and our common goals. Our full concentration is on the Euros. We will do everything we can to get as far as possible."

Rangnick's decision comes as Erik ten Hag's job at United hangs in the balance. With the arrival of new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, it's unclear whether the Dutchman will be given another chance next season, with a well-placed source claiming the British billionaire isn't 'sold' on his philosophy.

With Rangnick now out of the running, Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is a name that many have touted as a potential replacement for Tuchel at the Allianz Arena. The Italian has now become the bookies' favourite to take over the Bundesliga side, with his odds as low as 2/1.

That could be a big blow to United, who are said to have De Zerbi on their radar as a candidate should they decide to part company with Ten Hag at the end of the season. Tuchel, on the other hand, is the bookies' favourite to take over at Old Trafford next season, with current England manager Gareth Southgate and former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter also in the running.