Austrian coach Ralf Rangnick has extended his contract, meaning his term will last until 2028.

The Austrian Football Association (OFB) announced on Saturday that national team coach Ralf Rangnick has renewed his contract. He will remain in his position after this World Cup until the end of the 2028 European Championship.

The 67-year-old Ralf Rangnick has managed numerous teams, including Ulm, Stuttgart, Hannover, Schalke 04, Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig, and Manchester United, leading them to one German Cup, one German Super Cup, one German League Cup, two Austrian Bundesliga titles, and two Austrian Cup titles. He is also considered one of the pioneers of the modern high-pressing style of football and has had a profound influence on the coaching philosophies of many renowned German-speaking managers, such as Jürgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel, Julian Nagelsmann, and Ralf Hasenhüttl.

In June 2022, Ralf Rangnick officially succeeded Franco Foda as the head coach of the Austrian national team. During his tenure, he coached Austria in 45 matches, with a record of 27 wins, 18 draws, and 10 losses.

With the contract extension officially finalized, recent rumors about Ralf Rangnick potentially taking over AC Milan have been completely put to rest. Austrian Football Association President Josef Puller excitedly stated, "I am very pleased to announce this good news to our fans on the eve of the World Cup. Rangnick's contract extension sends an important signal of unity, demonstrating that we share common sporting goals. This clear situation is especially important for the team."

“I want to especially thank Ralf Rangnick. His decision to stay in Austria and with the national team fully demonstrates how important this job is to him. It’s something he truly cares about from the bottom of his heart.”

"It is obvious that the Austrian Football Association cannot compete with top international clubs in terms of financial resources. I must emphasize that other factors convinced Ralf Rangnick. Austria and Ralf Rangnick are a perfect match."

Rangnick later added: "The contract extension was a major decision for me involving multiple factors, including the future of the coaching staff. Now, all those issues have been resolved. At least 50% of what has happened in the national team over the past four years is thanks to the coaching staff. I can now say with absolute certainty that I will remain in my position after the World Cup."

Following the contract extension, Rangnick and the entire Austrian team will continue preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Austria's World Cup campaign will officially begin on June 16th, with their opponents in Group J being Jordan, Argentina, and Algeria.

Image source: Internet/OFB official website