Erik ten Hag has been criticised for his treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United, with Arturo Vidal saying “bald guys are complicated”.
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- Portuguese superstar did not respect coach
- Saw contract terminated in November 2022
- Forgettable end to second spell in England
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Dutch coach inherited a squad at Old Trafford that included five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldoin the summer of 2022. He hit 24 goals in the previous campaign, but had just three efforts to his name through 16 appearances when the World Cup break was reached.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Ronaldo would not play another game for United from that point, as his contract was terminated on the back of an explosive interview in which he admitted to lacking respect for Ten Hag. Debate regarding how the Portuguese departed Manchester raged for several weeks – before he linked up with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr – and former Barcelona and Juventus star Vidal is among those that believe the all-time great should have been handled with greater care and respect.
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WHAT THEY SAID
Chilean midfielder Vidal has said on his personal stream: “That coach came in badly. How are you going to take out Cristiano Ronaldo? That's how these guys are. He was the top scorer and he takes him out. These bald guys are very complicated.”
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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Ronaldo remains a legend at Old Trafford from his first stint at United – when he plundered 118 goals through 292 appearances, while helping the club to Premier League and Champions League titles. His standing in the eyes of some Red Devils supporters has been soured somewhat, but Ten Hag has shown across his time in English football that he is not afraid to make difficult decisions on those that undermine his authority.