Ralf Rangnick had no issues with Jadon Sancho during their time together at Manchester United (Picture: Getty)
Former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick insists Jadon Sancho’s conduct was impeccable during their time together at Old Trafford.
Rangnick sat in the United hot seat for just over half a season on an interim basis following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The second-half of the 2021/22 campaign represented a turbulent period for United, with mass uncertainty engulfing the club prior to the appointment of Erik ten Hag.
Rangnick drew criticism when, following a dismal run of results, he suggested the club required ‘open heart surgery’ as he struggled to deal with the consequences of a toxic dressing room.
Ten Hag has fared little better in dealing with the personalities and attitudes that have undermined his hope of accelerating a much-need rebuild.
The Dutchman turned his ire on Sancho earlier this season after he was left out of the squad for the game at Arsenal in early September and the unsavoury fallout culminated earlier this week with the winger returning to Borussia Dortmund on loan.
Rangnick is confident a return to familiar surroundings will spark Sancho back into life and hopes to see the player who lit up the Bundesliga during his first spell at the club.
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Jadon Sancho returned to Borussia Dortmund on loan earlier this week from Manchester United (Picture: Getty)
He told Sky Germany: ‘He had his best time in Dortmund and, when he was healthy, he always played for me. However, he wasn’t as carefree as in Dortmund.
‘But that was also due to the overall situation. When he was fit, he was set and did well under me.
‘He no longer had a chance in Manchester. He now has to get back into a rhythm and really into shape in Dortmund. From his point of view, the change makes perfect sense.’
Asked whether reports of a poor work ethic were in keeping with the player he coached during his own ill-fated stint, Rangnick added: ‘In the six months I had him, there wasn’t a single discipline problem.
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‘On the contrary. He is a calm and pleasant guy.’
Ten Hag, meanwhile, broke his silence on Sancho’s departure on Friday, speaking ahead ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Tottenham.
‘I hope he’s doing well, so I wish him the best of luck,’ Ten Hag said. ‘That’s it. I hope he’s doing well and he will be a success.’
MORE : Erik ten Hag tries to explain why Antony has zero goals or assists for Manchester United this season
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The England international is back at Borussia Dortmund.