Manchester United: TV pundits Neville and Richards clash over Rangnick after derby
Ralf Rangnick Manchester United 2021-22
©Getty Images
The constellation around Ralf Rangnick at Manchester United causes a debate among the two ex-professionals Gary Neville and Micah Richards.
TV pundits Gary Neville and Micah Richards have clashed after Manchester United’s bitter defeat by city rivals City. The subject of the discussion was the signing of Ralf Rangnick.
“Why should he even be given the job of manager? We’re talking about the here and now. So you just want to write off the season? Is that what you’re doing?” Richards made his anger at the 1: 4 swatter Uniteds in the studio of Sky Sports Air.
“Micah, Micah, you’re ranting emotionally without really making any sense,” Neville countered, drawing a comparison with Chelsea: “Chelsea appointed interim managers until the end of the season just to bring them to the end of the season, when the manager they want becomes available.”
Richards to Neville: “Just because you’re associated with Manchester United…”
Richards later revealed that he was not amused that former United player Neville called his statements “nonsensical”: “Just because you’re associated with Manchester United doesn’t mean my opinion is irrelevant.” Above all, he criticized the fact that the Red Devils did not sign Antonio Conte (now with the Spurs).
Neville defended his former employer’s move. “They didn’t want him and I agree with them that they didn’t want him. Conte is not a manager for Manchester United. He comes for a year or two and does a great job,” he said.
“He’s winning. Do you want to be mediocre for the next ten years? Is that what you want?” Richards interjected. “They’ve already done that with Jose Mourinho,” Neville replied. “They want to sign either Pochettino or ten Hag for a long-term project and they needed someone to see through to the end of the season.”