Rangnick Gives His Thoughts On Haaland And Greenwood Comparison
Mike Hewitt/Pool via REUTERS
Ralf Rangnick insisted Mason Greenwood is different to “target striker” Erling Haaland following his incredible goal in Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Young Boys.
The 20-year-old was a constant threat against Young Boys in an otherwise subdued Champions League display from United on Wednesday night.
His acrobatic finish to open the scoring yet again sparked comparisons with Robin van Persie. In his age group, perhaps Haaland is the only player more clinical than the United academy graduate.
The Norwegian striker was signed by RB Salzburg from Molde in 2019 by current United boss Ralf Rangnick.
As such, the German was asked how Haaland compares to the Englishman, to which he replied: “They are a different kind of striker. Erling, for me, is a target striker, who can play as a single striker like a target man or together with another striker in a 4-4-2.
“I think Mason is more of a nine-and-a-half. He can play as a striker, he can also come from the wing, he can play together with another striker and he’s very technical. Left foot, right foot.”
Rangnick further added that he needs to develop Greenwood physically and mentally to help him reach his full potential and become a regular player at the club.
Interestingly, this opens a possibility of Rangnick making a move for Haaland for the second time if United intend to pursue a natural number nine to replace ageing Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani next summer.