Erik ten Hag reveals Ronaldo clash details after four years

Erik ten Hag has revisited his dispute with Cristiano Ronaldo, blaming Manchester United’s internal culture and lack of support for undermining the authority he tried to establish as manager. The Dutchman said the club allowed players too much influence and did not consistently back disciplinary decisions, contributing to what he described as a damaging environment. Ten Hag was dismissed in October 2024 after two years in charge.

The conflict with Ronaldo became the defining example of that struggle. In November 2022, Ronaldo said publicly that he did not respect Ten Hag, prompting a breakdown that ended with the Portugal forward leaving Old Trafford for Saudi club Al Nassr. Ten Hag said some players failed to place football or United at the centre of their priorities, while also arguing that Ronaldo held significant influence in the dressing room.

Ten Hag also criticised a group of former Real Madrid players, understood to include Raphael Varane and Casemiro, for seeking too much control over tactical decisions and the team’s playing style. He felt their preferred approach conflicted with the more attacking, dynamic football the club wanted. Casemiro, who arrived as an experienced midfield organiser, later appeared to lose motivation, Ten Hag said. The former manager’s wider criticism included Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, although he maintained that Rashford could excel when properly focused.