During Ralf Rangnick’s tenure at Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo made it clear that he wouldn’t accept sitting on the bench for games he wasn’t involved in, opting instead to watch them from home.
Ronaldo, who returned to Manchester United amid great fanfare, played under Rangnick for several months after the manager took over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the 2021/22 season. Despite his illustrious career, questions arose about Ronaldo’s impact on the team dynamics and his adaptation to pressing systems, particularly due to his age.
Rangnick, who initially served as interim boss with plans to transition into a consultancy role. Had discussions with Ronaldo about managing his workload. According to reports, Ronaldo expressed his willingness to play in four out of five matches but insisted on being omitted from the squad entirely for the fifth match instead of sitting on the bench.
Ronaldo’s homecoming to Old Trafford, where he had won his first Ballon d’Or in 2008, didn’t unfold as expected. Leading to the termination of his contract 18 months after joining from Juventus. Erik ten Hag eventually took over as manager, overseeing Ronaldo’s departure from the club.
Amidst this, Ronaldo had been vocal about his opinions on Rangnick, questioning his credentials as a coach.
Despite Rangnick’s reputation in Germany, Ronaldo claimed ignorance, stating. “If you’re not even a coach, how are you going to be the boss of Manchester United? I’d never even heard of him.”
Rangnick faced challenges during his stint at Manchester United, and Ronaldo. While topping the club’s scoring charts in his sole full season, faced criticism for both his performances and demeanor.
Rangnick acknowledged Ronaldo’s limitations, particularly in pressing, which had been evident even in his youth.
“He’s not a pressing monster,” Rangnick remarked. “He’s not a player who would aggressively chase after the ball. We had to make compromises, maybe too many at times.”
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