Man United boss Erik ten Hag hits back at Cristiano Ronaldo criticism

Erik ten Hag has responded to criticism from former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Portugal international has been playing his club football with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr since the start of 2023.

The forward joined the Saudi Pro League side on a free transfer after his second spell with Man United ended in acrimonious fashion.

After his Man United contract was terminated, the five-time Champions League winner revealed that he felt "betrayed" by Ten Hag.

Ronaldo recently reopened his war of words with Ten Hag, criticising the Dutchman for previously stating that Man United are "a long way away" from winning the Premier League and Champions League.

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Ten Hag hits back at Ronaldo criticism

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Ronaldo said: "They need to rebuild everything, in my opinion. The coach, they say they cannot compete to win the league and Champions League.

"Manchester United coach... you cannot say that you're not going to fight to win the league or Champions League."

Ten Hag offered a response when he was asked about Ronaldo's criticism ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Southampton.

"He said that, that Manchester United can't win the Premier League," Ten Hag told reporters. "He said this if you read the article very well. He is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester, so everyone can have an opinion and is entitled to have an opinion. It is okay."

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Ten Hag already under pressure

Ten Hag appeared to be nearing the exit door until May's FA Cup triumph convinced the Man United hierarchy to extend his contract until June 2026.

However, the Man United manager has seen his position come under scrutiny following a disappointing start to the season.

The Red Devils lost on penalties to Manchester City in the Community Shield, before going on to lose two of their opening three league matches.

When questioned about his future, Ten Hag said: "We will see where we are in May. It's very early in the season, it's about winning trophies and being as high as possible. Do everything to win every game. We will see in May. It doesn't impact me.

"I know where we are going, we are still in a transition period. We have to integrate a lot of young players and are still dealing with injuries. Before anyone says excuses, no, we have to win every game. The team knows this."

Ten Hag has confirmed that summer signing Manuel Ugarte is available to make his debut, but he is without the services of Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund due to injury.

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