Rangnick explains absentees at Palace
Ralf Rangnick has offered an explanation for the absence of several key players from Manchester United’s squad to face Crystal Palace, Cristiano Ronaldo included.
The Portuguese forward has started 30 of United’s 37 Premier League games this season, but misses out on this final fixture due to a hip flexor injury.
Speaking to club media pre-match at Selhurst Park in south London, Rangnick discussed his team selection for this 2021/22 Premier League finale.
Alongside Ronaldo, Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Dean Henderson and Luke Shaw are not in the 20-man squad.
“Yes, they are all not available due to injuries so we have some players missing today,” he said.
Ralf: Hannibal impressed in training
Rangnick reveals why he has chosen to give Hannibal his first senior start against Palace this afternoon...
“It’s a good experience [for the younger players on the bench], maybe a couple, one or two, may come onto the pitch during the game but we will try to win the game. This is our job.”
Young Tunisian midfielder Hannibal makes his first senior start for United, having twice come off the bench over the last two seasons, including in last season’s concluding match at Wolves.
Rangnick explained what his message to the 19-year-old will be pre-match.
“Just try to play as he trained,” the German coach said.
“He was good in training for the last two weeks which is why I decided to have him in the starting XI today.”