Erik ten Hag Responds to Cristiano Ronaldo's Criticism of Manchester United

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has responded firmly to Cristiano Ronaldo's recent criticism of his leadership at Old Trafford.

Former Red Devils star Ronaldo has accused the Dutch coach of lacking ambition in the role and not understanding what it takes to lead a club of United's size.

The pair endured a fractured end to their link at United, with Ronaldo leaving the club to join Al Nassr in December 2022, following the termination of his contract in Manchester.

MORE: All the latest Man Utd news | Premier League schedule for 2024/25 | Latest Premier League top scorer rankings

Ronaldo did not hold back in his critique of his old boss as part of an interview with former United teammate Rio Ferdinand on the Five YouTube channel.

"As Man United manager, you cannot say you're not going to fight to win the Premier League or Champions League. You’ve got to say: maybe we’ve not the potential, but we're going to try. You have to try!", he said

"Manchester United needs to rebuild everything."

Ten Hag was asked for his response to Ronaldo's remarks as part of his pre-match press conference ahead of United's Premier League return against Southampton this weekend.

The former Ajax boss was dismissive in his answer but could not resist a jibe at Ronaldo's current team.

"It (Ronaldo's comments) do not impact me. He said Man United can’t win the Premier League? No, he said it.

"He is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester. Everyone can have, and is entitled to have an opinion, it's OK."

Ronaldo also hinted United’s failure to lean on former players for guidance is part of the problem. He pointed to legends like Ruud van Nistelrooy, Roy Keane and Ferdinand as figures who could help steer the club back in the right direction.

“If Ten Hag listens to Ruud [van Nistelrooy], maybe he can help the club. You can’t rebuild a club you don’t understand."

With United struggling on the pitch, and the pressure mounting on Ten Hag, it remains to be seen whether the club will take Ronaldo’s advice or continue on their current path.