Manchester United have confirmed former Schalke and RB Leipzig supremo Ralf Rangnick as their new interim boss until the end of the season. 

The 63 year old German will take charge of his first game once his work visa is processed.

He leaves Lokomotiv Moscow to take up his new position.

Rangnick and the club have agreed to a two year consultancy role at Old Trafford from next summer.

Michael Carrick will continue in charge until Rangnick's visa is finalised. This may include Thursday's Premier League game with Arsenal.

Rangnick has made his first comments to the United club website, praising the blend of 'youth and experience' on offer.

“I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season for the club.

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

“Beyond that, I look forward to supporting the club’s longer-term goals on a consultancy basis.”

One of the first decisions for Rangnick will be how to manage Cristiano Ronaldo, who was left on the bench by Carrick for Sunday's Premier League game at Chelsea.

United's Football Director John Murtough said:

“Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football. He was our number one candidate for interim manager, reflecting the invaluable leadership and technical skills he will bring from almost four decades of experience in management and coaching.

“Everyone at the club is looking forward to working with him during the season ahead, and then for a further two years in his advisory role.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked earlier this month following a string of poor results.

United are currently eighth in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Chelsea. They have qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League.