Ronaldo Calls for Complete Rebuild at Manchester United, Criticizes Ten Hag’s Approach

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Cristiano Ronaldo has urged Manchester United to completely rebuild if they are to compete for top football titles again. Speaking on the "Rio Ferdinand Presents" podcast, the 39-year-old Portuguese forward, now playing for Al Nassr, expressed concerns over the current state of the club under manager Erik ten Hag, insisting significant structural changes are needed.

Ronaldo, who won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, and a Club World Cup during his first spell at United from 2003 to 2009, remains deeply attached to the club. Despite his love for United, Ronaldo feels that the current trajectory under Ten Hag isn’t enough for long-term success. "They need to rebuild everything from the bottom," he said. "If not, they cannot compete. It will be impossible."

Ronaldo’s criticism focused on Ten Hag’s public statements that Manchester United isn’t ready to challenge for the Premier League or Champions League titles. Despite the club's recent FA Cup and League Cup victories, Ten Hag stated in July that United is a “long way away” from being title contenders. Ronaldo disagreed, saying, "As Manchester United’s coach, you cannot say you're not going to fight for the league or Champions League. Even if you don’t have the potential, you have to try."

Ronaldo’s relationship with Ten Hag broke down during his second stint at Old Trafford, which began in 2021 after he rejoined from Juventus. Their fallout culminated in Ronaldo’s departure in December 2022, with Ronaldo later saying he felt "betrayed" by the club and accusing Ten Hag of showing him a lack of respect. Despite this, Ronaldo maintains that he still holds affection for Manchester United. "I love that club," he said. "I’m not happy with how it ended, but I don’t forget the past."

Ronaldo also pointed to new investments led by INEOS boss Jim Ratcliffe as a sign of positive change at the club but insisted more is required. "The club needs time to rebuild," he said. "They have to start from the bottom if they want to compete again at the highest level."

Ronaldo highlighted the importance of experience, suggesting Ten Hag should rely more on former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has joined the coaching staff. "You cannot rebuild a club without knowledge," Ronaldo said. "Ruud knows the club, the fans, and what it takes to succeed. If the coach listens to him, I believe they can improve."

As Manchester United struggles at the start of the 2024-25 season, losing two of their first three matches, pressure is mounting on Ten Hag. Ronaldo’s comments underscore the frustrations felt by many fans and former players who believe that significant changes are needed for United to return to the top.

In Ronaldo’s view, the solution is clear: "Manchester United is still one of the best clubs in the world. But to compete for the biggest titles, they need to change everything. I believe the future will be bright, but it’s going to take time."