Manchester United news: Ralf Rangnick 'frustrated' by Ronaldo and Cavani absences during City defeat

Planet Sport writer
6 March 2022

Ralf Rangnick on the sidelines during the Manchester derby

Manchester United were without both Edinson Cavani and Cristiano Ronaldo during their 4-1 defeat to cross-town rivals Manchester City on Sunday.

Ralf Rangnick was forced to field a side without two of his star strikers on Sunday afternoon, after he revealed that both Edinson Cavani and Cristiano Ronaldo were injured.

A make-shift front two of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba instead led the line for United, and it was a plan that enjoyed some success in the first half, with Jadon Sancho's goal wedged between Kevin De Bruyne's brace ensuring the Red Devils were still in the game at the break.

However, City built on their 2-1 lead in the second half, with Riyad Mahrez' brace sealing a dominant 4-1 win.

🗣 "We are fully aware we need to win games."

Ralf Rangnick has not given up the hope of finishing in the top 4 after today's result pic.twitter.com/KLzYJiVD5C
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) March 6, 2022

Following the final whistle, Rangnick was questioned about Ronaldo's and Cavani's absence, and the German coach insisted it was the players who deemed themselves unfit to play Sunday's match.

"I have to believe my medical department," Rangnick said.

"Our doctor came to see me Friday morning before training and told me that Cristiano could not train because of some problems with his hip flexor and the same was true on Saturday and that's why he couldn't be a part of the squad.

"What does it help if I tell you it is frustrating? It is just a fact. If players tell the doctor and the medical department they are injured and cannot play I have to accept it.

"I cannot force a player to play if he's not available because of an injury."

Manchester United's second half display. Wow. pic.twitter.com/kuPxzOOv49
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) March 6, 2022

Cavani's absence marked the 23rd time in just 38 games this season the Uruguayan striker missed a match.

But while Cavani remains sidelined, Rangnick plainly stated that he can't force a player to play.

"Edi trained in the last three days, he trained well but he still felt after those three training sessions yesterday afternoon that he is still not fit to play. This is a fact. As a manager, I cannot force a player if he does not feel fit enough or well enough to play," added Rangnick.

The Red Devils now find themselves down in fifth in the Premier League, having played three games more than Arsenal above them. They now face an uphill battle to secure qualification for next season's Champions League.

They're back in action next Saturday, as they host fellow top-four chasing Tottenham at Old Trafford.