5 best players for Manchester United under Ralf Rangnick

Ralf Rangnick was appointed as Manchester United's interim manager in late November. The Red Devils had started looking bereft of ideas in the final days under former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Norwegian did a good job over his two full seasons in charge but things eventually got to a point where something had to give. As a result, Solskjaer was given the sack and Rangnick was brought in to replace him.

The German coach's reputation preceded him and his appointment was seen as a step in the right direction for Manchester United.

Manchester United have done well under Ralf Rangnick so far

Rangnick has now been in charge for 16 games. Manchester United have lost just two matches in that time, one of which was in a penalty shootout against Middlesbrough.

Several Manchester United players have already shown signs of improvement under Rangnick. The Red Devils have become sturdier at the back under the German coach and they've also been able to carve out chances on a consistent basis.

Without further ado, let's take a look at five players who have performed well under Ralf Rangnick.

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#5 Fred

Atletico Madrid v Manchester United: Round Of Sixteen Leg One - UEFA Champions League

Manchester United's holding midfielder Fred has received a lot of flak since joining the club. He is a tenacious customer at the center of the pitch but he has an erratic streak in him which fans have not taken kindly to in the past.

But under Rangnick, we have seen Fred get into more advanced positions on a regular basis. He is a lot more involved in the build-up and that has rather surprisingly worked out really well for Manchester United.

In 12 appearances under Rangnick, Fred has scored two goals and provided four assists. His passing has improved and the Brazilian international has been a lot more focused in midfield under the new manager.

#4 Scott McTominay

Manchester United v Southampton - Premier League

Scott McTominay is a bit of a divisive figure among football fans. While many reputed managers have hailed his abilities, the fanbase is not that convinced of his qualities. Regardless, the Scottish international has been one of Manchester United's best players this term.

He is a combative presence in the middle of the pitch and has been one of the Red Devils' best players under Ralf Rangnick. The 25-year-old is a fairly good ball progressor and loves to drive forward and join the attack, navigating his way through traffic to great effect.

He was particularly impressive in late December and January, where he picked up four man-of-the-match awards in six games. McTominay has become one of the first names on the teamsheet under Rangnick. He can be a great role model for the youngsters at United thanks to his mentality and positive attitude.

#3 Paul Pogba

Leeds United v Manchester United - Premier League

Paul Pogba missed the first two months of Ralf Rangnick's managerial reign due to a hamstring injury. But since making his comeback against Middlesbrough, Pogba has shown Manchester United exactly what they've been missing.

The Frenchman is one of the best playmakers in the world. His exquisite passing and delightful footwork has helped the Red Devils exercise a great level of control in the midfield realms.

Pogba turned in four back-to-back impressive performances upon his return with only the outing against Atletico Madrid being relatively lackluster. In six appearances under Rangnick, the 28-year-old has scored a goal and provided an assist.

Pogba's current contract with Manchester United expires this summer. Thanks to his recent performances, the Old Trafford faithful are calling for the club to extend his deal.

#2 Jadon Sancho

Manchester United v Southampton - Premier League

It would have been rash to dismiss Jadon Sancho as a Manchester United transfer flop following his insipid showings in the first half of the season. He is only 21 years old and has his entire career ahead of him and anyone who has watched him at Borussia Dortmund would be fully aware of his capabilities.

Sancho is finally starting to deliver at Manchester United. He has been a menacing presence down the left flank in recent weeks. The Englishman exudes confidence these days, taking defenders on and beating them comprehensively. His decision-making in the final third has also been commendable.

Sancho has scored two goals and provided two assists in his last six appearances. He has evolved into a proper attacking threat under Rangnick and is the most improved player under the German coach without question.

#1 Bruno Fernandes

Atletico Madrid v Manchester United: Round Of Sixteen Leg One - UEFA Champions League

It's no surprise that Bruno Fernandes continues to be Manchester United's most important player even under Ralf Rangnick. The Portuguese international's streetsmarts and technical ability make him one of the most dangerous attacking midfielders in the world.

Fernandes could be having a poor game but he'd still be able to carve out a number of chances and contribute in terms of goals or assists. The 27-year-old has played in a deeper role under Rangnick. He has therefore been able to get more touches on the ball and affect games more extensively.

The Portuguese international is enjoying a rich vein of form right now. In 14 appearances under Rangnick, Fernandes has scored four goals and provided five assists. All of those nine goal contributions have come in his last nine appearances for the club.