Ralf Ragnick has been appointed manager of Manchester United until June next year before moving on to a consulting role.

The Red Devils reached an agreement with Lokomotiv Moscow where Ragnick was sports and development manager.

He will take over from Michael Carrick who oversaw United’s win over Villarreal and the 1-1 draw against Chelsea last week. The former midfielder could be responsible for the visit to Arsenal on Thursday night if Ragnick’s work permit is not processed in time.

After the news of his appointment, Ragnick said the club’s website: “I’m excited to join Manchester United and focus on making this a successful season for the club.

“The squad is full of talent and has a good balance between youth and experience. All my efforts over the next six months will be on helping these players reach their potential, both individually and, most importantly, as a team.

“In addition, I look forward to supporting the club’s long-term goals on a consulting basis.”

Ragnick is someone who is revered in management circles and has influenced such as Jurgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel and Julian Nagelsmann among others.

The 63-year-old also oversaw the emergence of RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg as both coach and sports director, and now fans of the Red Devils hope he can have a similar effect on a team that is performing.