Third surgery on the hip in a span of three months for Ranknick
In a surprising turn of events, Ralf Rangnick, the Team Manager of the Austrian Football Federation, underwent a third operation on his injured ankle at the Murnau trauma clinic on Tuesday. This operation follows an injury sustained in June and two previous surgeries, including a second, unplanned surgery in Salzburg in early July.
Rangnick's strategic expertise is considered crucial for Austria's first World Cup appearance since 1998. However, his health issues have caused him to miss important events, such as cancelling an ÖFB perspective coaching course at the end of July and promoting the daily PE hour in a Vienna school on crutches just before the surgery last Tuesday.
Despite his physical challenges, Rangnick has shown resilience, completing the two September games while using crutches with his usual intensity. In an innovative move, he even rode an e-bike across the pitch during an away game in Bosnia-Herzegovina to spare his ankle.
The World Cup qualifiers are symbolizing Rangnick's unwavering will to lead the Austrian team. Key matches against San Marino and Romania are coming up in October. Until Rangnick returns, assistants Lars Kornetka and Stefan Oesen will take over.
The Austrian Football Federation gave the all-clear on Wednesday, stating that the operation was successful. Dr. Johannes Gabel, the specialist from Murnau, gives hope for a lasting healing success for Rangnick. He will remain in the hospital for a few days and then continue his rehabilitation.
The duration of Rangnick's absence due to this surgery is not specified, but it is known that he underwent an ankle operation in the summer, followed by inflammation and another surgery, causing him to avoid long walks and use an e-bike during matches as of September 2025. This indicates a recovery period of several months, but no precise duration has been publicly confirmed.
The World Cup dream for Austria depends not only on points but also on Rangnick's recovery. As the football community awaits news on his return, the focus remains on the team's preparations and the hope for a swift and full recovery for the esteemed coach.
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