He is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester: United coach Erik ten Hag aims barb at Criano Ronaldo for recent comments | Football News
The cold war between former Manchester United player Criano Ronaldo and coach Erik Ten Hag continues even after the forward’s transfer to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr back in 2023 after a public falling out with the Dutchman in 2022.
Ronaldo recently aimed a barb at ten Hag saying that Manchester United manager cannot say they are not going to fight to win the league title or the Champions League.
“The coach, they say they cannot compete to win the league and Champions League. (As) Manchester United coach, you cannot say that you’re not going to fight to win the league or Champions League. You have to be, to mentally say, len, maybe we don’t have that potential, but I cannot say that. We’re going to try. You have to try,” Ronaldo said recently on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast.
“He’s far away from Manchester” 👀
Erik ten Hag responds to Criano Ronaldo’s comments 🗣 pic.twitter.com/tXOMW91uP9
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 12, 2024
Ten Hag on Thursday replied to his former player’s comments, saying,” He said that Manchester United can’t win the Premier League. He said this, if you read the article very well. He is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester. Everyone can have an opinion.”
United are 14th in the standings on three points while Southampton are second from bottom and yet to win a point this season.
Back in 2022, Ronaldo had blasted Manchester United and manager ten Hag in an incendiary TV interview, saying he feels “betrayed” the club and that senior figures have tried to force him out of Old Trafford.
When asked on the program “Piers Morgan Uncensored” whether United’s hierarchy was trying to force him out of the club, Ronaldo said: “Yes, not only the coach, but another two or three guys around the club. I felt betrayed.”
On November 2022, the club had stated that Ronaldo has parted ways with Manchester United.
“Criano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United mutual agreement, with immediate effect,” said Manchester United.
“The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford, scoring 145 goals in 346 appearances and wishes him and his family well for the future.
“Everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
