Cristiano Ronaldo has criticized Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s negative attitude, urging him to aim for the Premier League title despite the club’s need for a significant rebuild.
Ronaldo, who now plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, had a falling out with Ten Hag before his second stint at Old Trafford ended in late 2022. He believes that although United requires major changes, Ten Hag should still push for major trophies.
Ten Hag has expressed confidence in winning more silverware after securing the League Cup and FA Cup in the past two seasons, but in July, he admitted that the team is "a long way away" from being ready to challenge for the Premier League, which they haven’t won since Sir Alex Ferguson's final season in 2013.
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In an upcoming episode of the *Rio Ferdinand Presents* podcast, Ronaldo shared his thoughts: "Manchester United needs to rebuild everything, but as a coach, you cannot say you're not going to fight for the league or Champions League. Even if you lack potential, you have to try."
Although United defeated Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May, they had their worst Premier League season in recent history, finishing eighth. The team has also lost two of their first three matches this season.
Ronaldo stressed that while United is still one of the world’s top clubs, they need significant changes. "The club understands this, and they’re starting to change the structure, the president, and everything else," he added.
British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe acquired a minority stake in the club in February and has overseen changes in the hierarchy after taking control of football operations. Ronaldo remains optimistic: "I believe the future will be bright, but it’s not just about talent; it’s about the whole club working as a united front. They need to rebuild from the ground up. If not, they won't be able to compete."
Despite his controversial exit from United, where he scored 27 goals in 54 appearances during his second spell, Ronaldo said he still loves the club. Reflecting on his fallout with Ten Hag, he explained, "I don’t respect him because he doesn’t respect me," but added, "I’m not happy with how things ended, but it's done. I love that club and will never forget the past."
