Ralf Rangnick, formerly the manager of RB Leipzig and Manchester United, has been at the helm of the Austria Men’s National Team since 2022. This year, he is taking ‘Das Team’ to their first World Cup since 1998.
Formation in Sussex
In 1979, a 21-year old Rangnick spent a year at the University of Sussex, and trialled with West Sussex side Southwick. He has previously stated how important his time on the south coast was to his development, not only for his short stint as a player, but predominantly his managerial career. From an interview in 2011, he emphasised how, “The most important thing for me was the amount of coaching we did on the pitch … that was totally inspirational for me and certainly moulded me.”
At the Helm of Austria
43 years later, he left his interim position at Manchester United and was appointed as Austria’s Manager. His only major tournament for the nation, so far, was the 2024 European Championships in Germany. There, they managed to top their competitive group containing France, the Netherlands, and Poland. Despite this, they went on to win two out of three to send them into the Round of 16 where their run met its end at the hands of Turkey. However, originally on a two-year deal, Rangnick’s strong showing during the Euros extended his deal to include the 2026 World Cup.
In the lead-up, Austria topped a fairly easy qualifying group with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, Cyprus, and San Marino their competition. However, their World Cup grouping would not prove so easy. Austria’s opponents include: World Cup defending champions Argentina, a strong Algeria side and underdog Jordan.
At the time of writing, Rangnick has had the perfect start to the World Cup, as his team managed to beat Jordan 3-1 in San Francisco. They will be hoping to continue their good run going as they face their toughest challenge in Argentina on 22nd June and then conclude their group stage fixtures against Algeria on 28th June. Either way, their three points earned thus far should ensure their safe passage to the knockout rounds, due to most third placements qualifying for the Round of 32 at this World Cup.
Additionally, more good news for Rangnick was announced recently. The Austrian FA has, yet again, extended the German’s contract until 2028, which will see him at the helm of the team during the 2028 Euros, held in the UK and Ireland. Sussex’ managerial alumnus will be heading back to his old stomping ground which moulded him into the world-class manager he is today.
