Cristiano Ronaldo’s second spell at Manchester United came to an unfortunate end, and Jose Mourinho has provided an explanation for it. In the summer of 2021, Ronaldo made a surprising return to Old Trafford, leaving the football world in disbelief. Despite initially showcasing his exceptional goal-scoring abilities, he eventually grew dissatisfied with the managerial approaches of Ralf Rangnick and Erik ten Hag. Following a disagreement with Ten Hag, the 39-year-old Portuguese icon was dropped from the team. This strained relationship, coupled with a controversial TV appearance in which Ronaldo criticized Ten Hag and the club’s leadership, led to the termination of his contract in late 2022.
Expressing his thoughts on Ten Hag, Ronaldo stated, “I have no respect for him [Ten Hag] because he does not show respect for me. If you do not have respect for me, I will never have respect for you. Not only the manager but also the other individuals associated with the club at the senior executive level. I felt betrayed. I do not care; people should hear the truth. Yes, I felt betrayed. I believe that some individuals did not want me here, not only this year but also last season.”
Despite scoring 27 goals, Ronaldo’s return to his former club after a 12-year absence was disappointing. Renowned Portuguese manager Mourinho has now shared his insights on handling a player of Ronaldo’s caliber and personality. Speaking with Rio Ferdinand, Ronaldo’s former teammate, on FIVE, Mourinho said, “You do not coach Cristiano. Motivation is not something you need to provide him. Ambition, responsibility, you cannot give him; technically, you cannot give him. It is simply about making some tactical adjustments and allowing the man to be happy.” When asked if there was anything he could teach Ronaldo, he humbly responded, “I do not think so; he does not need it.”
Mourinho served as United’s manager from May 2016 to December 2018. Prior to that, he managed Ronaldo at Real Madrid, where they achieved success in the Copa del Rey and La Liga. Following his departure from Manchester United, Ronaldo joined the Saudi Pro League team Al-Nassr, where he has rediscovered his form and passion for the game while playing in the Middle East. In 19 appearances this season for Al-Nassr, he has scored 21 goals and provided nine assists.
According to the Source caughtoffside.com