“Ten Hag was right to push Ronaldo out” — Ex-Man United coach

Ronaldo argued that Ten Hag’s admission that United are “a long way” from winning the Premier League signals a weak mindset that could hold the club back.

In a sharp response, Ten Hag dismissed Ronaldo’s comments, stating:

“He is far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester. He is entitled to have an opinion, it is okay.”

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The Dutchman’s brutal comeback highlights the continued friction between the two, dating back to Ronaldo’s explosive exit from Old Trafford in 2022.

Now, former Manchester United coach Steve McClaren has thrown his full support behind Erik ten Hag’s bold decision to part ways with Cristiano Ronaldo.

McClaren revealed key insights into the Dutchman’s no-nonsense approach to managing the dressing room. McClaren, in an exclusive interview, praised Ten Hag’s handling of the Ronaldo saga, stating,

“He set the rules—and if you didn’t follow, you didn’t play.”

The former United coach emphasized how Ten Hag’s disciplined approach has re-established a much-needed sense of order at the club, stating:

“Discipline, standards, and behavior are the cornerstones of Manchester United’s identity. That’s what Erik brought back to the team.”

McClaren believes that Ten Hag’s decision to part ways with Ronaldo, despite the player’s legendary status, was the right call for the long-term health of the club.

“Ronaldo is an icon, but the team needed a clear direction. Erik knew that if he let certain standards slip, it would affect the entire squad. That’s the strength of his leadership—he doesn’t sway from his principles.”