Ten Hag Says Ronaldo Let United Down

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says Cristiano Ronaldo let him and the team down during the forward’s second spell at Old Trafford. Ten Hag recalled travelling to Portugal before taking the job to discuss his plans with Ronaldo, but said he made decisions based on what he believed was best for the team. He accused Ronaldo of missing or underperforming in training, failing to complete fitness drills—including running laps after United’s defeat to Brentford—and urging teammates to conserve energy; Ten Hag said Ronaldo’s preparation and work with and without the ball did not meet the team’s needs. Ten Hag said he respected Ronaldo’s status as one of football’s greatest players but believed star players had to work for the team; Ronaldo had previously said he felt “betrayed” by the manager. Their relationship deteriorated during the 2022-23 season, and Ronaldo’s United contract was terminated by mutual agreement in November 2022 after he publicly criticised the club.