Ten Hag responds to Ronaldo’s criticism of Man Utd’s desire

Erik ten Hag responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticism of his ambition at struggling Manchester United on Thursday by stating Ronaldo is “far from Manchester”. Ronaldo quit United in November 2022 after criticizing his Dutch manager. The 39-year-old Al-Nassr player again blasted Ten Hag this week, calling him too harsh for United.

The Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast said Ronaldo: “Manchester United coach, you cannot declare you won’t challenge for the Premier League or Champions League.You must psychologically say, “Maybe we don’t have that capacity, but I can’t admit that.” We’ll try. You must try.” He said the club must “rebuild everything” and win major championships “will be difficult”.

Ronaldo played with Ferdinand from 2003 to 2009, his first trophy-laden United season. After winning the League Cup and FA Cup in two seasons, Ten Hag is “quite confident” of winning more this season. United hasn’t won the Premier League since Alex Ferguson’s final season in 2013. He said in July that his team is a “long way away” from winning. At a Thursday press conference, Ten Hag addressed Ronaldo’s attitude: “Manchester United can’t win the Premier League. Observe the document to see his statement.

So he’s in Saudi, far from Manchester. All can have an opinion. No issue.” After United’s 3-0 home loss to bitter rivals Liverpool, Ronaldo spoke after an international break. Ten Hag said he was unaffected. “It doesn’t affect me,” he remarked. “In the process, I know where we are, what we must do, and where we go.”As mentioned, we’re transitioning. The team needs several young players.

Team members must return from injury. Not excuses—we must win every game. I and the team know this, thus availability doesn’t matter. We’ll concentrate on winning every game.” United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May but ended ninth in the Premier League last season, their worst.

The 20-time English champions will meet Southampton on Saturday after losing two of their opening three league matches. After playing for Uruguay midweek, new signing Manuel Ugarte may debut. Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund are sidelined.