Rio Ferdinand has identified the ‘most important aspect’ of Manchester United’s next managerial appointment and has praised the ‘refreshing’ trait of Ralf Rangnick.
United continue to assess candidates ahead of appointing a new permanent manager, with the Red Devils conducting a recruitment process to bring in a new manager ahead of next season.
Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag are believed to be the front runners for the role and Ferdinand insists it is vital that the incoming boss is not intimidated by the pressures of taking charge at Old Trafford.
“The most important aspect for whoever it is will be that they have the character to be able to deal with this situation,” Ferdinand told the Mirror.
“You have to remember the size of this club is huge and you have to embrace that, and not be scared or startled by it.
“There is a lot of heavy lifting to do in terms of changing the narrative and fortunes of the club.
“That requires a big character and personality to carry that off – never mind all the tactical nous and experience that will be required.”
Ferdinand also discussed Ralf Rangnick’s reign so far with the experienced German having been named as interim manager until the end of the season.
Rangnick has lost just two of his 15 league fixtures in charge of the Red Devils, though the club’s performances have been inconsistent and United remain outside the Premier League’s top four.
However, Ferdinand has been impressed with Rangnick’s honest assessments of his side and says the 63-year-old’s ‘appraisals of games’ have been refreshing.
“In terms of the results, they have generally been good – but you have to remember the calibre of opponents,” he said.
“He has had a very good run in terms of the teams he has played against, their level and where they are in the league – that has been very favourable.
“The big concern for him and what has probably surprised him the most is the Jekyll and Hyde performances that he sees within the 90 minutes. I do not think I have seen a game other than his first game against Crystal Palace where I have thought that there was a real level of consistency across the entire game.
“There have been no other matches when you think they have been really, really good over 90 minutes – a sound performance where you thought they were in real control.
“You are not looking for extravagant performances, but one where there is soundness – that is probably the biggest concern for him beyond individual players.
“He will have looked at the players and their character, whether or not they are good enough.
“He has been very honest in his appraisals of games and their situation, which is refreshing.”
