You're in Saudi - Man United manager Erik Ten Hag replies Ronaldo's scathing criticism

Erik Ten Hag and Cristiano Ronaldo.

You're in Saudi - Man United manager Erik Ten Hag replies Ronaldo's scathing criticism

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 17:46 - 12.09.2024

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has swiftly replied to the criticism from former player Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has swiftly responded to recent criticisms made by former player Cristiano Ronaldo about the club's ability to compete for top honours. 

The Dutch tactician's comments come in the wake of Ronaldo's controversial statements about Manchester United's current state and ambitions.

Ten Hag began by clarifying the nature of Ronaldo's comments, stating, "He said that Man United can't win the Premier League. He said this, if you read the article very well." 

This direct acknowledgement shows that Ten Hag is well aware of the specifics of Ronaldo's critique.

Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Al Nassr | Imago

However, the United manager was quick to put these comments into perspective. 

"Ronaldo is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester," Ten Hag pointed out, subtly highlighting the distance between Ronaldo's current situation and the day-to-day realities at Old Trafford. 

Erik ten Hag and Cristiano Ronaldo on September 4, 2022 when the going was good.

He added, "Everyone can have an opinion. It's okay!" This measured response suggests a desire to downplay any potential controversy while respecting Ronaldo's right to express his views.

Addressing the core of Ronaldo's criticism about United's competitiveness, Ten Hag remained resolute in his ambitions for the team. 

Erik Ten Hag is not bothered by Ronaldo's criticisms.

"We will do our best to win every game. We will see where we are in May," he asserted. This statement reflects Ten Hag's focus on the present and future, rather than engaging in a back-and-forth about past comments or hypothetical scenarios.

The Dutch manager also took the opportunity to reiterate his understanding of Manchester United's current position and long-term goals. 

Casemiro was former teammates with Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid and Manchester United || Image credit: Imago

"I know in the process where we are and what we have to do, where we are going," Ten Hag explained. 

He further emphasised, "I have said before we are still in a transition period." Ten Hag’s acknowledgement of the club's ongoing development suggests that he is aware of the challenges ahead but remains committed to a long-term vision for success.

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag || Imago

Ten Hag's response to Ronaldo's criticism demonstrates an intriguing approach, neither dismissing the comments outright nor allowing them to derail the team's focus. 

By emphasising the club's current process and future ambitions, the United manager appears intent on maintaining a positive outlook despite external criticisms.

The coming months will reveal whether Ten Hag's confidence in the team's direction is well-founded, as Manchester United aims to prove their critics wrong and compete at the highest level of English and European football.