By Nathaniel Kay

'So glad': Some Chelsea fans very relieved after hearing what Ralf Rangnick has just said

Chelsea supporters on social media were pretty unified in their response to Ralf Rangnick’s first press conference as interim Manchester United manager.

Rangnick was officially presented to the press earlier today as the new part-time coach of United, following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The German finally got to watch his side in the flesh yesterday evening, after his work-permit issues were resolved.

He witnessed the Red Devils just edge out Arsenal 3-2 at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

Michael Carrick had been overseeing proceedings until the changeover took place.

Now, Rangnick can get to work on a team that still needs plenty of revamping.

Reject letter

In an alternative universe, Chelsea might be the ones benefitting from the gegenpressing inventor’s masterful mind.

Before the Blues replaced Frank Lampard with Thomas Tuchel in January, they approached Rangnick, an offer the 63-year-old turned down.  

“At the time when Chelsea contracted me this year, they only spoke about the option to become the interim manager for four months,” said the former RB Leipzig boss.  

“So, it was in February, without any perspective to work in the long term together.

“Here (Manchester United), we are now talking about six and a half months. So, we only have one-third of all the games played in the Premiership.

“As you all know, we have agreed upon a two-year advisory role after those six and a half months.

“In the end, to be honest, if a club like Manchester united contact you for such a role, you cannot possibly turn it down.”

Got in the Rang-nick of time

As it transpired, Rangnick’s loss turned out to be Chelsea’s gain.

Tuchel guided the team to a Champions League victory, an FA Cup final and a fourth-place finish in the Premier League, all achieved in five months.

A handful of Blues fans might have been disappointed by the board’s decision at the time.

There are no such feelings of regret now.

Here’s how they reacted to Rangnick’s recent statement:

Nathaniel Kay

Nathaniel is a football journalist who graduated from the University of Derby. He has worked at Burton Albion as part of their media team for two years. Nathaniel produces regular articles for the club’s official website and match-day programme. He covered the 2018 U20 Women’s World Cup in Brittany and has reported from grounds ranging from non-league up to the Premier League.