Ralf Rangnick has secured his position as Austria's head coach by extending his contract through 2027, with an automatic extension through 2028 if Austria qualifies for the 2028 European Championship. The decision provides coaching continuity as Austria navigates its World Cup group stage.
AC Milan approached Rangnick three weeks before the World Cup, inviting him to become the club's technical director. Rangnick made clear from the outset that he required "clarity by the beginning of the World Cup" for himself, his coaching staff, and the ÖFB (Austrian Football Association). Milan's approach did not meet that standard.
"I made it very clear from the start that I wanted clarity by the beginning of the World Cup," Rangnick told Krone.at. "Those were very good and trusting discussions with the ÖFB. It was important to me that my staff remain on board. I only found out recently that everything is settled with my staff, which is why the decision was only made now."
AC Milan remains in search of a new CEO, technical director, sporting director, and head coach following executive dismissals at season's end. Former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has emerged as the leading coaching candidate and was offered a two-year contract.