Austria’s national team coach, Ralf Rangnick, is once again dealing with health challenges as he continues his battle to fully recover from a series of ankle surgeries.
The 67-year-old, who has been at the helm since 2022, recently contracted a germ during his rehabilitation process, forcing him to remain in hospital for additional treatment.
From Routine Operation to Complications
What began as a standard ankle operation in June quickly turned into something more complicated.
After the initial procedure, Rangnick was rushed back into surgery in July due to complications.
Most recently, reports from Germany suggest he had to undergo yet another operation in Murnau, Bavaria, leaving him still under medical care.
Specialist Steps In
Rangnick’s recovery is now being closely monitored by Dr. Johannes Gabel, a well-regarded ankle specialist known for treating top football stars such as Manuel Neuer and Jamal Musiala.
Despite the difficulties, doctors are optimistic that with proper care, he will soon regain stability.
Absence from Team Duties
Because of his condition, Rangnick has withdrawn from announcing Austria’s squad on September 29.
However, optimism remains that he will return in time to lead the team during October’s World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Romania.
A Coach on Two Wheels
Even while struggling with walking, Rangnick hasn’t lost his sense of humor.
At Austria’s recent game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, he ditched crutches and instead cycled around the pitch.
He rode his bike to a pre-match interview, returned at half-time the same way, and later joked that walking would have been “a bit too far.”
A Long Road to Healing
Back in July, an infection forced him to return to hospital for more treatment.
Though the process has been slow, Rangnick reassured fans that he was “taking small steps” forward in his rehabilitation while being careful not to put unnecessary strain on his ankle.
Austria’s Strong Progress
Since taking over in 2022, Rangnick has reshaped the Austrian side, leading them to the last-16 at Euro 2024 after topping a tough group featuring France, the Netherlands, and Poland.
His leadership has been crucial as Austria aims for its first World Cup appearance since 1998.
Victory Despite Challenges
Even with their coach navigating health struggles, Austria’s players have delivered on the pitch.
Against Bosnia, goals from Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer secured a 2-1 win, with Edin Dzeko briefly pulling one back for the opposition.
A Career of Experience
Rangnick’s career speaks for itself—21 wins in 37 games with Austria and a long managerial résumé that includes stints at Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig, Schalke, Stuttgart, and Hannover.
He even turned down the Bayern Munich job in 2024 to continue leading Austria.
What Lies Ahead
While Rangnick’s health remains a concern, Austria’s momentum is strong.
All eyes are now on October’s World Cup qualifiers, where fans hope to see their coach back on the sidelines, pushing them closer to a long-awaited return to the world stage.