Ralf Rangnick has decided to continue as the manager of Austria, even after engaging in discussions with Bayern Munich.
The 65-year-old, who previously managed Manchester United, was in negotiations earlier this week with Bayern.
He had been anticipated to succeed Thomas Tuchel, who will depart from the club at the season’s end.
“I am the Austrian team boss with all my heart,” Rangnick said.
“I would like to expressly emphasise that this is not a rejection of FC Bayern, but rather a decision for my team and our common goals.”
Ralf Rangnick is set to continue his role as Austria’s manager through the upcoming European Championships in Germany, and he is expected to fulfill his contract, which runs until 2026.
Bayern Munich is not currently negotiating with any other managers. Rangnick is the second candidate to step back from consideration for the Bayern job after Xabi Alonso, who was also linked to the role and whose team, Bayer Leverkusen, halted Bayern’s streak of 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles this season. Bayern also recently drew 2-2 with Real Madrid at home in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
Rangnick’s managerial career includes a six-month tenure as interim manager at Manchester United during the 2021-22 season and previous roles with several clubs including Ulm, Stuttgart, Hannover, Hoffenheim, Schalke, and RB Leipzig.
Austria, under his leadership, made it to the last 16 of Euro 2021, where they were eliminated by the eventual champions, Italy.