When discussing Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to end his contract in November, Manchester United made subtle digs at him. Erik ten Hag, manager of Manchester United, has acknowledged that his decision to terminate Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract did not make him “lose sleep.” The Dutchman insists that he knew what could happen and “had his reasons” for trading the 38-year-old midway through the season.
In an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in November, which the club did not approve of, Ronaldo slammed Ten Hag, claiming he did not respect him after losing his place as a sure starter. He was let go soon after, one of many signs that Ten Hag was putting his stamp on the disgruntled team he took over last summer. Before Wout Weghorst’s loan in January, the United manager risked spending most of his first season at Old Trafford without a natural striker. It was the ultimate show of power. It also reflected the manager’s mentality toward the fans and owners.
Ten Hag defended his decision after three months and one trophy because he knew it was the best way to move his project forward in M16. Ten Hag stated, I had justifications. They were apparent, and I was aware of the repercussions. It could have resulted in harm. In football, that is always possible. Both in the short term and in the long term, I must confront the consequences and impact of my choices.
Naturally, you only sometimes have a little time. We had ten days to consider the best option during that time. Many saw the UTD boss’s move as a power move to mitigate the club’s future from disturbances within. In the end, many regarded this move by the boss as a big statement for the future of the club.