Ralf Rangnick work visa issues delay debut as Manchester United manager

• Interim manager will not take charge against Arsenal

• Michael Carrick to stay at helm for Thursday’s match

Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for Thursday’s Premier League match at home to Arsenal because the club have not received the requisite paperwork for Ralf Rangnick.

The German has been appointed as interim manager until the end of the season but has not yet been granted a work visa. A United statement said: “While the club follows the regulatory process around a work visa, Carrick will continue at the helm.”

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The former United midfielder and now coaching staff member was appointed as caretaker after Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s sacking. Carrick has taken charge of a 2-0 victory at Villarreal that sealed qualification for the Champions League knockout round and Sunday’s league draw at Chelsea.

United host Crystal Palace on Sunday. It would be a surprise if Rangnick were not in the dugout then.