Erik ten Hag Breaks Silence on Explosive Cristiano Ronaldo Clash That Rocked Man Utd

Erik ten Hag acknowledged that Cristiano Ronaldo wasn't "the issue" throughout his challenging two-and-a-half-year tenure at Manchester United.

Ten Hag generated negative publicity during his Manchester United management period. Between disappointing performances, divisive statements, and a highly publicized conflict with Ronaldo, Ten Hag's Old Trafford experience clearly didn't meet anticipated standards.

Ronaldo, who returned to United in 2021, spent just 15 months wearing the red jersey before transferring to Al Nassr, openly criticizing both the organization and Ten Hag during his departure.

Ten Hag was subsequently dismissed in October 2024 due to the Red Devils' ongoing difficulties, which continued well beyond the departure of the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient. Now serving as Bayer Leverkusen's manager, the Dutch coach discussed his former dispute with Ronaldo.

"From my perspective, [Ronaldo's] not an issue. He never was the issue and I believe that's behind us," Ten Hag stated after Bayer Leverkusen's 2–0 loss to Chelsea in a pre-season match.

"I believe that's what occurred. It's history and afterward, we secured two trophies at Manchester United. I hope for his success in the future and wish him the best," Ten Hag continued.

The Red Devils proceeded to capture the Carabao Cup and FA Cup after Ronaldo's departure, yet these two victories weren't sufficient to preserve Ten Hag's position. The club brought in Ruben Amorim as his successor, but performance remained poor, with the team placing 15th in the Premier League last season.

"This isn't about Manchester United, that chapter is finished," Ten Hag stated. "I'm focused ahead and genuinely pleased to return [to coaching]. I'm truly enjoying these recent weeks.

"We possess a quality club [Leverkusen]. We have a strong squad and we will develop."

While Ten Hag begins his fresh opportunity with Bayer Leverkusen, Ronaldo continues excelling for both Portugal and Al Nassr in his pursuit to become the first male footballer in history to reach 1,000 career goals. The Real Madrid icon netted 27 times during his second Old Trafford period, yet still felt "deceived" by the club following his disagreement with Ten Hag.

"I lack respect for [Ten Hag] because he shows no respect toward me," Ronaldo declared in 2022. "Without respect for me, I'll never respect you."

Ronaldo hasn't yet commented on or replied to Ten Hag's latest statements.