Cristiano Ronaldo clashed with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United during their brief time working together.
Erik ten Hag got a lot wrong during his time at Manchester United. One decision he made that is rarely disputed was his choice to axe Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ten Hag refused to make Ronaldo an undisputed starter, leading to the veteran forward becoming even more unsettled.
Ronaldo had privately declared an intention to leave United in summer 2022 before the season kicked off, creating an uneasy tension for Ten Hag to resolve, with the Red Devils refusing to sell or not receiving a suitable offer.
In November 2022 the situation blew up, with Ronaldo forcing his own contract termination. United went on a winning run and lifted the Carabao Cup months later.
Ronaldo is still playing at the age of 41, where his opening performance for Portugal at the tournament has drawn lots of criticism.
Ten Hag on Cristiano Ronaldo
Erik ten Hag appeared on Dutch television as a pundit during the World Cup, and this led to questions about Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking to channel NOS via FC Update, Ten Hag was asked if he had spoken to the superstar since his deal was terminated.
“Of course, I haven’t spoken to him since his departure,” Ten Hag responded.
It should not be a surprise. Ten Hag elaborated on his reasoning for the decision to drop Ronaldo from the Manchester United team.
He explained: “As a coach, the team’s interest always comes before the individual interest. And at that moment, that didn’t fit.”
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On World Cup 2026
Erik ten Hag admits doubt over what Cristiano Ronaldo can contribute at World Cup 2026, but does not rule out that he can make an impact.
He said: “At a certain point, and that is simply nature, it stops. And I am really very curious to see if he can still make an impact at this World Cup.
“I think he has a bit more of a chance at a World Cup like this, because it isn’t the Premier League in terms of intensity, nor is it the Champions League. So I believe he is still capable of something.
“Portugal actually has such an incredibly good team. They really should definitely reach the last four.
“But I wonder: with Ronaldo, that is the big challenge, of course. Will it fit?”
Portugal are next in action against Uzbekistan, before facing Colombia in their final group game.
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