New Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick can now start his role after being granted a work permit.
Rangnick, 63, has been waiting for approval over his visa since being appointed on Monday following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
That approval has now been given and paperwork has been finalised so Rangnick is free to start his position.
He is set to be in the stands as United take on Arsenal at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Thursday, though he is not expected to have any influence in Michael Carrick’s final game in charge.
Rangnick was spotted on a tour of Old Trafford on Tuesday and his first game in the dugout will be the league fixture at home to Crystal Palace this Sunday.
The former RB Leipzig boss, who left his role as head of sport development at Lokomotiv Moscow to join United, will face the media for the first time on Friday.
United confirmed Rangnick will also take up a two-year consultancy role at the club after his period in the hot seat ends at the close of the season.
“I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season for the club,” Rangnick said after his announcement.
“The squad is full of talent and has a great balance of youth and experience. All my efforts for the next six months will be on helping these players fulfil their potential, both individually and, most importantly, as a team.
“Beyond that, I look forward to supporting the club’s longer-term goals on a consultancy basis.”
Rangnick is widely regarded as an influential footballing innovator across Europe and elite coaches Jurgen Klopp, Thomas Tuchel and Julian Nagelsmann are among his admirers.
United football director John Murtough was delighted to secure his number one target as the club assesses their options before appointing a permanent boss this summer.
“Ralf is one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football,” Murtough said.
“He was our number one candidate for interim manager, reflecting the invaluable leadership and technical skills he will bring from almost four decades of experience in management and coaching.
“Everyone at the club is looking forward to working with him during the season ahead, and then for a further two years in his advisory role.”
