Cristiano Ronaldo Calls for Total Overhaul at Manchester United to Restore Former Glory

 

Cristiano Ronaldo believes he has the solutions to Manchester United's struggles, urging the club to "rebuild everything" to regain its former success.

Speaking on the “Rio Ferdinand Presents” podcast, Ronaldo, who had two stints at United before his departure two years ago, emphasized the need for a complete overhaul at the club. He criticized the current mindset of the coaching staff and manager Erik ten Hag, arguing that their mentality is hindering the team’s potential.

“The coaches, they say they cannot compete to win the league and the Champions League,” Ronaldo remarked. “If you’re a Manchester United coach, you should never say that you’re not going to fight for these titles. Even if the potential isn’t there, you need to have the mentality to try.”

Manchester United, which last won the Premier League under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, has struggled with various managers since then. Under ten Hag, the club finished eighth in the league last season, its worst-ever Premier League finish, although they did win the FA Cup by defeating Manchester City in May.

This season has started poorly, with a narrow 1-0 win against Fulham followed by losses to Brighton and Liverpool.

Ronaldo stated, “This club needs time to rebuild. It’s still one of the best clubs in the world, but it needs change. They understand that this is the only way.”

He added, “I believe the future can be bright, but it’s not just about the talents; it’s about the entire club working as a unit. They need to rebuild from the ground up. Without this, competing for major titles will be nearly impossible. They might win domestic cups, but the Champions League, Europa League, or Premier League will be very challenging.”

The 39-year-old forward, who left United in 2022 following a controversial interview with Piers Morgan, expressed his enduring affection for the club and his desire to see it succeed. Ronaldo, who was frustrated by his limited role under ten Hag, is now playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

He praised the recent addition of former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to the coaching staff, believing it will be beneficial. “You cannot rebuild a club without true football knowledge,” Ronaldo said. “It’s not enough to have office workers who watch football on TV. The real experts are those who have been in the dressing room and on the field.”

Ronaldo recently achieved his 900th career goal with Portugal and continues to be a prolific scorer, having netted 145 goals during his time at Manchester United before his record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid.