03.11.2026 • 18:33

Erik ten Hag Opens Up About Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid's Transfer Philosophy

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has shared frank insights regarding his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo during their time together at Old Trafford. Speaking on ESPN, the Dutch coach explained that the 41-year-old Portuguese star could no longer push through pain or maintain the extreme daily training standards required to compete in the Premier League, Champions League, or at the international level.


Ten Hag asserted that Ronaldo's peak performance years plateaued after his departure from Juventus. Highlighting the stark reality of modern football, he praised Real Madrid for their shrewd ability to part ways with players precisely when they still appear to be at their peak, before physical decline sets in.

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