Ralf Rangnick released from hospital – return to the coaching bench!

Ralf Rangnick released from hospital – return to the coaching bench!

Ralf Rangnick, the coach of the Austrian national soccer team, was released from the Murnau accident clinic in Bavaria on October 2, 2025. This information was confirmed by a spokesman for the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB). Rangnick was hospitalized for multiple operations on his right ankle after he became infected with a hospital germ during a planned procedure in mid-June. This complication meant that the 66-year-old had to be treated in Murnau for two weeks.

Rangnick's return is already planned for Monday, October 3rd, on which day he will lead the national team's training course. Austria is facing important World Cup qualifiers, with San Marino in Vienna on October 9th and Romania on October 12th in Bucharest. In these encounters, Rangnick will not only return as team boss, but also as the person responsible for the further development of the team, which is currently tied for second place in Group H after four games with Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Health challenges

The previous period was a big challenge for Rangnick. After several operations, he had to undergo hospital treatment again due to an infection. These events were reported by the Austrian news agency APA. During his stay in hospital, his assistant Lars Kornetka took over the squad presentation for the international break, which was originally planned for September 29th.

In the last few weeks, Rangnick was visibly limited and had to use an e-bike at times to protect himself during the international match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. The medical care was in the hands of specialist Johannes Gabel, who has also treated other athletes and is known for his expertise. The ÖFB expressed the hope that Rangnick can return to the sidelines in October to help the team reach the World Cup.

Injury prevention in football

The challenges Rangnick is faced with are an example of the high demands placed on athletes and those responsible in football. Football not only requires speed, strength and endurance, but also carries an increased risk of injury. For this reason, preventative measures are essential to ensure the long-term health of players. Over the past 30 years, there have been advances in injury prevention based on science-based strategies.

Models such as that of Van Mechelen et al. Developed 4-step protocol for injury prevention or the TRIPP model from Finch offer a structured approach to specifically prevent injuries. Current evidence-based programs such as FIFA 11+ or the Knee Control Program have been proven to have positive effects on reducing injuries. However, the consistent implementation of these programs in practice often remains a challenge due to a lack of time, personnel and knowledge.

The close connection between injury prevention and performance improvement is a central aspect of modern football training. By regularly integrating targeted training and regeneration measures into the training cycle, the risk of injuries can be significantly reduced. A comprehensive approach that takes both physical and mental aspects into account is crucial for the sustained success of athletes and coaching teams.

Rangnick's return to the sidelines could be crucial not only for the team, but also for the further development of preventive strategies in Austrian football. Vienna.at reported the dismissal while HNA.de and Sportarztzeitung.com provide additional perspectives on Rangnick's health and the challenges in football.