Ronaldo’s Reflections: A Mix of Nostalgia and Criticism

In a recent interview, Cristiano Ronaldo reflected on his previous association with Manchester United, particularly the circumstances surrounding the end of his second tenure with the club. His contract was mutually terminated in November 2022 after he publicly criticized then-manager Erik ten Hag for perceived disrespect and lamented the mentality of younger players at the club.

Ronaldo also directed criticism towards the Glazer family, noting that there had been ‘zero progress’ on or off the pitch since his departure for Real Madrid in 2009. While Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have taken over football operations, Ronaldo feels that little has changed under their leadership.

“Currently, there is no structure in place,” the Portuguese international stated. “I hope this changes in the future because the club has incredible potential. Manchester United holds a special place in my heart, and I love it dearly. However, we must acknowledge that we are not on a positive trajectory. Changes are necessary, and it involves more than just the coach and players.”

Since Ronaldo’s exit, Manchester United has faced considerable challenges, leading some to question INEOS’s commitment to improvement. However, the new leadership has set ambitious goals, aiming for Premier League glory by 2028 to coincide with the club’s 150th anniversary. They are overhauling the recruitment model as a crucial step towards that objective and have unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art stadium, described as the “Wembley of the North.”

Despite making unpopular decisions such as staff reductions and increased ticket prices, Ratcliffe’s actions have strengthened the club’s business model. He has invested in new players and a manager who align with a long-term vision, which has started to yield improved performances on the field.

Ronaldo, however, remains skeptical about United’s chances of clinching the Premier League title this season, citing an eight-point gap to the league leaders. He expressed sympathy for Ruben Amorim, who succeeded Ten Hag as head coach. “He’s doing his best; miracles are unrealistic in football,” Ronaldo remarked.

While Amorim inherited a challenging situation, he is working to establish a more aggressive and disciplined approach, which has been evident in the team’s recent performances. Although this transition may not lead to immediate success in the Premier League, the team is currently showcasing positive momentum with an unbeaten streak.

Ronaldo’s critical remarks have been met with resistance from Amorim, who emphasized the need to focus on the future rather than dwell on past mistakes. “We are actively changing our structure and improving; it’s essential to move forward,” the United coach stated.

Ronaldo appears to be striving to maintain relevance, but his comments about United may undermine the renewed optimism surrounding the club’s direction. Currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he recently scored his 953rd career goal, demonstrating his enduring prowess on the pitch.

Despite his accomplishments, Ronaldo has been vocal about the perception of the Saudi league compared to Europe’s top leagues. While he asserts that he could perform well in the Premier League at age 40, critics point out that his recent performances in major tournaments were underwhelming, raising questions about his adaptability to competitive environments.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Ronaldo’s aspirations seem mixed. He has previously characterized winning the tournament as a lesser ambition, despite its significance in football. His recent comments reflect a potential shift in perspective regarding Portugal’s chances, emphasizing a desire to enjoy the journey rather than fixate solely on the trophy.

In contrast, Lionel Messi, who recently led Argentina to victory in the World Cup, highlighted its importance as the pinnacle of a footballer’s career, underscoring the distinct narratives surrounding both players’ legacies. Ronaldo’s insistence on his greatness raises a debate about humility in sports, as his lofty self-assessment may detract from the respect he seeks from fans and critics alike.

Ultimately, both players continue to define their legacies in distinctive ways, with Ronaldo’s recent interview serving as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that accompany fame and success in the world of football.