Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag believes Cristiano Ronaldo’s ability to perform at the highest level declined after leaving Real Madrid in 2018.
The Dutchman shared his assessment during an interview with ESPN, reflecting on the Portuguese superstar’s remarkable career and their time together at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag acknowledged Ronaldo’s status as one of football’s greatest players but suggested that his best years were behind him when he moved to Juventus.
“He is of course a tremendous player, one of the greats of all time. But that is also the reality: over the last seven, eight years, he can simply no longer deliver. From Juventus onwards, it’s simply over,” Ten Hag said.
The former United manager also praised Real Madrid for their ability to recognise when it is time to part ways with established players.
He believes the Spanish giants have consistently made important decisions by allowing ageing stars to leave before their performances decline further.
“And that is actually the great gift of Real Madrid: they always know when to say goodbye to players at the right moment,” he added.
Ronaldo left Real Madrid for Juventus in 2018 after winning four Champions League titles with the Spanish giants.
He enjoyed a successful three-year spell in Italy, scoring 101 goals in 134 appearances before returning to Manchester United in 2021.
The forward scored 27 goals in 54 appearances during his second spell at Old Trafford.
However, his relationship with Ten Hag deteriorated during the 2022-23 season.
Ronaldo eventually left United following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticised the club and its manager.
His contract was terminated in November 2022, allowing him to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
Despite Ten Hag’s assessment, Ronaldo has continued playing professionally and remains an influential figure in world football.
