Russia-Ukraine Crisis More Important Than Champions League: Man United Manager Ralf Rangnick

UEFA Champions League: “We all hope, that things will de-escalate. Nobody would be interested in a war in Europe. This is more important than a Champions League game," Rangnick said.

Ralf Rangnick | (File Photo/ Getty Images)

Manchester United manager, Ralf Rangnick said that it is more important to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict than the venue for the UEFA Champions League Final. 

As the tensions on the Russia-Ukraine border rise, the United Kingdom and the USA have put sanctions on Russia. The Champions League final, which is perhaps the biggest football event of the year is scheduled to be played at the Gazprom Arena in Saint Petersburg on May 28, 2022. 

“We all hope, that things will de-escalate. Nobody would be interested in a war in Europe. This is more important than a Champions League game," Rangnick said.

Manchester United is scheduled to play against Atletico Madrid on Thursday in their Round of 16 Champions League game. 

Ralf Rangnick was asked about going up against Diego Simeone in today's press conference... 🎙#MUFC | #UCL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 22, 2022

"Well, it's a long way to the final. It is not the easiest of all draws (against Atletico)," Rangnick said. 

With the tensions escalating at the eastern border of Ukraine after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered troops to enter the country, UK prime minister Boris Johnson has urged the UEFA to strip Russia from hosting the Champions League final.

UEFA has not taken any decision on the same but it is said to be "watching the movements closely".