In his final programme notes as interim manager, Ralf Rangnick has assured Manchester United fans that despite the struggles of the club this season, “this is not the fall of Manchester United”.

Rangnick told United Review: “This season has clearly been a very difficult one for everyone at the club, and from the short time I have been here I can see how much everyone is hurting.

“There have been some good moments, but we never built enough positive momentum to allow our confidence to increase and ultimately we were unable to rescue the season.

“I want to be clear, though: this is not the fall of Manchester United; this is a stumble along the way and, when you stumble, you have to think quickly and clearly to regain your balance so you can carry on moving forward. 

“That is the position we are in as a club and if we have clarity in our actions from now on, we can make some big steps in the right direction.

“As I have said publicly, the steps that we need to take as a club are fairly clear. We have had a lot of discussions internally and know what has to happen.

“We need to be smart and decisive in our actions around the club, and we have started the process by making a very exciting managerial appointment with Erik ten Hag. When he arrives from Ajax next month, he joins a fantastic institution with great pedigree and, most importantly, great potential.

“To finish on a personal note, I have felt great warmth from Manchester United supporters since I came over in December, and it has been a genuine honour to be manager of this incredible club, even in an interim capacity.

“It will be a similar privilege to remain involved in the future in a consultancy role and I am feeling energised and determined to do my best in that position, and help restore this club to the high standards it demands and deserves. Thank you for all your support.”