Manchester United have prepared for the arrival of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager with an honorable draw at Chelsea and the German is expected to be reinforced over the next month when Paul Pogba returns from injury.

Pogba was ruled out for six to eight weeks after suffering a thigh problem on November 8 while on duty in France and the timing of his return is believed to remain realistic.

The midfielder continues to readjust in Dubai, but is said to be excited to work under Rangnick, having received positive feedback about the 63-year-old from contacts in the game.

Rangnick watched United’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on TV in Germany and had no contact with players or coaching staff, nor input on squad selection.

His appointment is expected to be confirmed within the next 24 hours, but it is not yet clear whether his first game in charge will be Arsenal’s Thursday visit or Crystal Palace’s trip to Old Trafford on December 5.

There is still some uncertainty as to when Rangnick’s visa process will be completed following his face-to-face meetings in Mayfair in London with the United hierarchy last week. Unusually for a world-class manager, Rangnick did not use an agent in his talks with United, choosing to represent himself in the negotiations.