Cristiano Ronaldo’s dramatic exit from Manchester United in November 2022 after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan left many wondering about the true source of his tension with manager Erik ten Hag. Now, former assistant coach Steve McClaren has pulled back the curtain on the “standoff” that ultimately led to Ronaldo’s departure.
When Ten Hag arrived at Old Trafford, he brought with him a clear tactical vision: an intense, high-pressing attack, a system that had brought him immense success at Ajax. However, this demand for relentless energy and defensive work rate immediately clashed with Ronaldo’s preferred style. McClaren revealed that Ten Hag was uncompromising. He laid out Ronaldo’s specific job: “Ronnie, this is your job. All he wants you to do is, you’re the first press, make one run, make two runs, and maybe make a third one, if you feel like it.”
The message from Ten Hag was stark: perform these duties, or you won’t play. McClaren explained that while many managers might have bent their rules for a player of Ronaldo’s calibre, Ten Hag “stuck to his guns.” It became a battle of wills, a “standoff” where neither side would yield. Ten Hag believed that no player, regardless of status, was bigger than the team’s system.
Even years later, Ronaldo’s perspective remains firm. He has continued to criticise Ten Hag’s mentality, stating that a Manchester United manager should never admit they can’t compete for major trophies. This saga wasn’t just about tactics; it was a fundamental clash of philosophies, ultimately showing that even football legends must align with their manager’s vision, or face the consequences.
