‘He’s not shy’ – Man Utd star reveals ‘forceful’ Rangnick methods
Scott McTominay believes the “firm” nature of Ralf Rangnick is what Manchester United need this season.
Rangnick takes United to Norwich in the Premier League on Saturday and is so far unbeaten as Red Devils boss after a win over Cyrstal Palace and a draw with Young Boys in the Champions League.
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The German boss has significantly alterred the tactics of the side in that short time and McTominay reckons his no-nonsense attitude is helping to get his point across to the players.
“He’s very firm, very driven and knows what he wants. In meetings he is very clear, that’s the way it is in football. To get your point across, you have to be clear and you have to be forceful,” McTominay told Sky Sports News.
“If players are not doing what you are asking, then he is not shy to tell you as well. The first early impressions are very, very good.
“We had a good result against Crystal Palace and hopefully now we can move forward now and keep winning football games.”
Rangnick replaced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the helm at United, but McTominay distanced himself from comparisons between the two managers.
“Football changes quick and you have just got to get on with your job,” McTominay added.
“For us, we are just listening and we are learning. We are wanting to do well for his ideas and what he wants and ultimately win games.
“That’s what him and his coaching staff have come to do – help us win games and keep progressing.”
McTominay also insisted that criticism of his midfield partnership with Fred – shortened to ‘McFred’ – does not affect his performances.
“Sometimes games are difficult. We have had difficult moments this season as a squad, and us both as individuals, that’s part and parcel of the game,” McTominay said.
“I have got nothing else to say other than I give absolutely everything, I am trying my best to improve, to learn. A new coach has come in and I am doing everything that I can possibly do.
“You just have got to get on with it and be thick-skinned. People can say what they want but ultimately it’s me that’s in my own head, and I know what I am doing behind closed doors is the best thing.”
Although the duo have been frequently criticised this season, Rangnick was pleased with their aggressive showing at Crystal Palace.
On the changes Rangnick’s told them to make, McToinay added: “Pretty much every team in the Premier League presses the middle of the pitch with the biggest intensity.
“His ideas in that respect is that the most regains leading to goals will probably be through the middle of the pitch, maybe little passes that get intercepted.
“It’s being streetwise, it’s being smart. It [Rangnick’s thinking] is flexible and easy to understand as well.”