Cristiano Ronaldo backed for Manchester United return as manager despite Erik ten Hag rift

Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has expressed strong support for Cristiano Ronaldo to return to Old Trafford, potentially as a manager, despite the superstar’s controversial departure under Erik ten Hag, Soccernet.football reports.

Cristiano Ronaldo made a much-publicized return to Manchester United in the summer of 2021 from Juventus. However, his second stint at the club was short-lived, lasting just 15 months.

Ronaldo’s exit in November 2022 was marked by a high-profile fallout with manager Erik ten Hag.

Following his departure, the 39-year-old forward signed with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January 2023, where he became the league’s top scorer in the 2023-24 season.

Speaking to TVSporten, former United and France forward Louis Saha reflected on Ronaldo’s future, suggesting that the Portuguese icon could one day return to Manchester United as a coach or manager.

Saha acknowledged the frustrations Ronaldo experienced during his second spell, particularly his discontent with the lack of passion he observed in younger players at the club.

Despite these challenges, Saha believes Ronaldo has the potential to succeed in management, though he may need to adjust his communication style.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has the passion and dedication to return to Manchester United one day, that could be as a coach or even a manager,” Saha noted.

“His second spell didn’t end how everyone had hoped and you can see why that frustrated him, he didn’t see the same formula and didn’t see the passion from young players that he had been used to seeing.

“Now he will know that he needs to find a new way to communicate when he becomes a coach, which maybe isn’t as harsh or direct as it was when he was at the club.

“He will work out how to be successful and use all his knowledge to do that, we’ve seen Roy Keane go into management and have success. Cristiano will understand what he needs to do as a manager and I see no reason why he wouldn’t be a success.”

Ronaldo’s current focus remains with Al-Nassr, though the new season started on a sour note with a 4-1 defeat to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup. He will next take the field on Thursday as Al-Nassr begins their Saudi Pro League campaign against Al-Raed.