Erik ten Hag Claims Cristiano Ronaldo Let Manchester United Down

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken out about his turbulent relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming the forward failed both the team and the coaching staff. The Dutchman, who was dismissed from his post in October 2024, suggested that the legendary striker did not meet the professional standards required during his second spell at the club.

"He let the team down, and he let me down, because we planned with him."

Erik ten Hag

Ten Hag explained that he had initially hoped to build his tactical plan around Ronaldo, even traveling to Portugal to discuss his vision before officially taking over. However, the manager asserted that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner did not prepare himself adequately for the season, which resulted in a lack of effort during matches and training sessions.

Training Ground Friction

According to media reports, the manager frequently confronted Ronaldo about his inability to contribute to the team's pressing game. Ten Hag alleged that the forward was physically unable to run effectively in or out of possession. Furthermore, the veteran attacker reportedly encouraged other players to conserve energy during practice, which directly contradicted the manager's fitness goals.

The tension between the two reached a breaking point in late 2022 when Ronaldo was excluded from the squad for refusing to appear as a substitute against Tottenham. Shortly after, the player gave a high-profile interview expressing a complete lack of respect for Ten Hag and claiming he felt betrayed by the club's leadership.

"If you don't have respect for me, I'm never gonna have respect for you."

Cristiano Ronaldo

The former manager also reflected on his wider struggles at Old Trafford, noting that he had missed out on key targets like Harry Kane and Declan Rice. This latest commentary comes as Ronaldo faces a fresh 30-day suspension from the Portuguese Football Federation for leaving an international camp. Despite his difficult exit, Ten Hag’s tenure is remembered by some for securing both the FA Cup and the League Cup during a period of long-term dysfunction at the club.