Erik Ten Hag, the former Manchester United manager, has renewed criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the club, alleging that the Portuguese forward let down both the team and himself during their time together. Speaking in an interview, Ten Hag disclosed that he had traveled to Portugal before assuming his managerial role at United in 2022 to discuss his vision with Ronaldo.

“I flew out to Portugal to speak with him about what I was aiming for before I came to United,” Ten Hag said. He described Ronaldo as one of football’s all-time greats but asserted that his decisions during their tenure were driven by the needs of the team.

Ten Hag also raised concerns about Ronaldo’s physical condition while at Manchester United. “I confronted him with his fitness,” he stated. “Many times I said, ‘Ronnie, everyone wants to work for you to bring you into the right position, but if you can’t bring yourself into the box, you can’t score.’” He denied that Ronaldo’s issues were due to tactical requirements such as pressing, suggesting instead that the forward did not sufficiently prepare himself physically.

In addition, Ten Hag claimed that Ronaldo advised his teammates to conserve their energy during training sessions. “He was telling the players, ‘Save your legs at the training,’” the former manager revealed.

Ronaldo’s exit from Manchester United came in November 2022 after a public and contentious fallout with Ten Hag, capped by an explosive interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan. Since then, Ronaldo has continued his career with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, where he is preparing for an upcoming Saudi Pro League match against NEOM.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo remains focused on reaching a significant personal milestone—1,000 official career goals—a target he sees as a major accomplishment. However, his recent tenure has not been without controversy. He was involved in a dispute with Portugal’s national team coach Jorge Jesus, reportedly resulting in a 30-day suspension and a €215 fine.

Despite these developments, Ronaldo’s primary focus appears to be his current club and prolonging his scoring record. Nonetheless, nearly four years after his departure from Manchester United, the disagreement with Ten Hag over his role and fitness continues to provoke discussion within football circles.