Cristiano Ronaldo has criticized Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag for having a negative approach and urged him to set his sights on winning the Premier League and Champions League. Ronaldo, now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, believes that despite the need for a major rebuild, United should still target top trophies.
The Portuguese star, who had a public fallout with Ten Hag before leaving Old Trafford in late 2022, stated on the “Rio Ferdinand Presents” podcast that United’s current approach lacks ambition. “The coach cannot say that they are not going to fight to win the league or Champions League,” Ronaldo said, emphasizing that the club must always aim to compete for the highest honors.
United have struggled recently, finishing eighth last season and losing two of their first three games this season. Despite Ten Hag’s success in domestic cups, including winning the FA Cup last season, he has expressed doubts about the team’s readiness to win the league. Ronaldo, however, stressed that United must rebuild from the ground up and make significant changes to compete at the highest level.
Ronaldo remains optimistic about United’s future, particularly under the influence of British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, who purchased a minority stake in the club and has begun restructuring its operations. “I believe that the future will be bright,” Ronaldo said, but noted that success requires more than just player talent—it demands a united and well-structured club.
Despite his criticism and strained exit from the club, Ronaldo expressed his enduring love for Manchester United, saying, “I’m not happy with the way it all happened, but I still love that club.”
