Rangnick Turns Down Bayern To Stay With Austria

Ralf Rangnick has decided to remain in his role as head coach of the Austria national team, spurning the opportunity to succeed Thomas Tuchel as Bayern Munich manager.

The former interim Manchester United manager, who will guide Austria at this summer’s European Championship in Germany, had been heavily linked with the manager’s job at Bayern.

“I am the Austrian team boss with all my heart,” Rangnick said in a statement on Thursday.

“I really enjoy this task and am determined to successfully continue on our chosen path.

“I would like to expressly emphasize that this is not a rejection of FC Bayern, but rather a decision for my team and our common goals. Our full concentration is on the European Championships. We will do everything we can to get as far as possible!”

Rangnick confirmed on April 24 that he had been approached by Bayern over their soon-to-be vacant manager role, but added he was not sure if he would take up the opportunity.

Bayern have been on the lookout for a new head coach since announcing in February that Tuchel will leave the club at the end of the season.

Despite their progress to the semifinals of the Champions League, the Bavarian side have endured a difficult campaign domestically as they trail Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen by 12 points.

Under Rangnick, Austria qualified for Euro 2024 with one loss in 10 games, winning eight.