Louis Saha understands the frustration of Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United
Former Manchester United star Louis Saha understands why Cristiano Ronaldo is frustrated at the club. The ex-striker feels Erik ten Hag has been wrong in his treatment of the 37-year-old.
Ronaldo has started just twice for Man United in the Premier League in the 2022/23 campaign. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has had to settle for a place on the bench under the Dutch manager.
Speaking to BoyleSports Premier League betting (h/t Manchester Evening News), Saha accused Ten Hag of disrespecting Ronaldo. The forward, who spent four years with the Red Devils, feels the Portuguese is the sort of player who should be kept on the pitch till the end.
“Ronaldo has been disrespected. I have not fully agreed with the management of Ten Hag. I can understand why Ronaldo was upset after the Newcastle game because he trusts himself to score, lately, he has not been as lucky and efficient, it happens, and people need to realise he is not a robot.”
Ronaldo has had a hard time in front of goal since the arrival of the former Ajax head coach. The Portugal international has featured in 12 games in the 2022/23 campaign. However, the 37-year-old has managed just two goals and one assist.
Last season, Ronaldo was our top goalscorer in all competitions. However, the Portuguese seems to not have his shooting boots on in the current campaign.
Ronaldo has not been helped by the fact that Ten Hag has preferred other options ahead of him in the starting lineup. The Dutch manager has put faith in Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial. Thus, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has been left wanting for more minutes.
Recently against Newcastle United, Ronaldo was subbed on in the 72nd minute. Man United were unable to create many chances. And while the 37-year-old found the back of the net twice, his strikes were ruled out.
Ronaldo seemed upset about having to come off against the Magpies. However, with his substitution, the Red Devils looked a bit more threatening and started creating a few chances. We missed some decent opportunities to take the three pints. However, the game eventually ended in a 0-0 draw.
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Ten Hag was evidently right in his decision to take Ronaldo off. The Portuguese has underwhelmed this season while others have thrived. But hopefully, the Portuguese is able to get back to his best and help Man United in the current campaign.