MANCHESTER UNITED could be serious contenders for the Champions League trophy this year under new boss Ralf Rangnick, according to Louis Saha.
The former United striker believes that the club can follow in the footsteps to Chelsea, who won the title last season with Thomas Tuchel.
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Tuchel took over the Blues in January and completely turned things around at the club, winning the Champions League only four months after signing.
Saha is confident that the Red Devils have the squad to go on and win the competition this year, and that Rangnick can get the best out of his players.
Speaking to Bookmakers the Frenchman said: “With the type of players Manchester United have, yes I think they can win the Champions League.
“But they need to find the right form.
“In cup ties, you have to show up and be good on the day and the bigger the side you face, the stronger you have to be mentally.
“If you can do that, anything is possible.
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“When you don’t have the right spirit or attitude, or you overthink things or don’t have the right tactics, you are in trouble.
“But you can find all that with a change of management.
“We saw Chelsea do it last season when they brought in a new manager and won the Champions League.
“It happens, and when things click – as it did with Chelsea – big things are possible.”
Saha also believes that Rangnick will be an important figure at United for years to come.
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He said: “I definitely think he’ll be a part of a long-term project.
“I don’t think the Premier League title is reachable this year, so it’s about building a strong squad, full of people committed to the club.
“That will be the most important thing.”
Cristiano Ronaldo re-joined Manchester United in the summer but has been subject to criticism for his performances and lack of involvement on the pitch.
However, Saha has argued that his former teammate is still United’s main man and that others should be facing the judgements: “Cristiano should not be worried about his place because he’s scoring goals and saving the team, along with the goalkeeper.
“I think it’s the other players who should be worried about their place, not Cristiano.
“At 36, he’s still doing his magic, so I’m surprised people are questioning him.”
Ronaldo has been United’s top goalscorer this season, netting 13 times in 18 games and also earning two assists.
The Reds are due to face Athletico Madrid in the next round of the Champions League which will be a tough test for Rangnick’s side.
