Man United boss Erik ten Hag ‘was right to take on CR7 at Man Utd as Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t up to his standards – Steve McClaren

Erik ten Hag has been informed that he was justified in challenging Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United, as the forward “failed to meet his expectations.”

Ronaldo’s second stint at Old Trafford was bitterly ended in November 2022, as his contract was terminated following an acrimonious interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticized the club hierarchy and Ten Hag. The decision to part ways with one of the finest players in football was met with a mixture of reactions; however, Ten Hag’s unwavering dedication to his philosophy enabled him to maintain his stance throughout the saga.

Ten Hag has now received support from his erstwhile assistant, McClaren, who served as the Dutchman’s assistant during his initial two seasons in charge.

In an interview with The Telegraph, McClaren declared, “I could not criticize his methodology.” “He effectively managed the situation.” I stated at the time that he was the appropriate individual to enter. That was demonstrated by his handling of Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure. Ten Hag arrived with predetermined criteria. Establish guidelines. A predetermined approach to the game. And if you did not run, you did not participate. He was adamant about that. Which the Dutch are. He was aware that this was the necessary action. There was no room for flexibility; the participants were unable to evade that obligation.

“This is the action you were required to take, or you were not allowed to participate.” He took on Ronaldo, and he did so with justification. Other managers have attempted to adjust. Erik did not consider it imperative to do so. [Ralf] Rangnick was unsuccessful in his endeavors, and Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] was the same. Ten Hag remained steadfast in his convictions and focused on the development of other athletes.

McClaren also cited an incident in which Marcus Rashford was benched for being tardy to a meeting on a matchday. In spite of the trivial infraction, Ten Hag maintained his standards, thereby conveying a clear message to the squad.

“On instances like lateness for meetings [that] was well documented, the Wolves one, [when Marcus Rashford] was a minute or two late for a meeting on game day,” he introduced himself.

“He [Ten Hag] placed him on the bench.” However, he did send him [Rashford] on and he scored the winning goal. Things of that nature were significant. Discipline was crucial. Standards were crucial. Behaviour was crucial. That is a well-known fact about United. That is the item that Ten Hag brought. Although some individuals did not approve of this – which is entirely reasonable – he never wavered from his stance. That is his greatest asset.”

Ronaldo has maintained his distinguished career by currently playing for the Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, following his departure from United. The Portuguese superstar has demonstrated no indications of slowing down and has commenced the 2024-25 campaign in exceptional form, scoring five goals in his initial six appearances for the Saudi club. Meanwhile, United will endeavor to resume their winning streak against Twente in the Europa League, following their stalemate at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace.