Ralf Rangnick is setting the right example

“I’m at the other end of the value scale”: Austria’s national soccer coach Ralf Rangnick Image: AP

“I won’t tolerate this”: Austria’s national coach Ralf Rangnick leaves three players at home who have chanted homophobic chants. In doing so, he takes a risk – and that is precisely why he acts in an exemplary manner.

Football is always about setting an example. All too often, however, nothing more than hot air comes out. Ralf Rangnick, the coach of the Austrian national team, has now shown what is a real sign: For the next two international matches against Slovakia and Turkey, he is deliberately without former Bundesliga professional Guido Burgstaller, the future Bremen player Marco Grüll and Niklas Hedl .

After the city derby against Austria Vienna at the end of February, the Rapid Vienna trio and other teammates insulted the opponent and chanted homophobic chants. By not being nominated, Rangnick makes it clear that there is no place for players with such views among Austria’s best. It is a decision that is not without risk for Rangnick in view of Austria’s performance at the European Championships this summer – and that is exactly what makes his message so valuable.