Manchester United manager Erik Ten Haag has finally opened up about his decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo in his teams and whether he still stands by the decision to drop the soccer legend.
In August, following humiliating defeats to Brighton and Brentford, Erik ten Hag knew something had to be done. Next came Liverpool, their eternal rivals, and another loss was expected. In a surprising move, he benched star talisman Cristiano Ronaldo and captain Harry Maguire from his starting team.
Ronaldo was their leading top scorer, and many criticized him for benching him. Instead, United won 2-1, playing with a new brand of counter-attacking football and high pressing. Since then, the manager didn’t look back and continued succeeding while Ronaldo had to leave as he wasn’t getting game time.
Winning the Carabao Cup, United’s first trophy in six years, Erik ten Hag spoke about that famous decision to bench Ronaldo and whether he still thinks about it.
What did Erik ten Hag say after benching Cristiano Ronaldo?
“I do consider big decisions like that, definitely,” ten Hag said. “I have to look at the impact they make, not only in the short term but also in the longer term. You always have to think strategically as a manager and face the consequences. I am aware of it, but that is my job and my responsibility.”
“I had reasons to choose that team against Liverpool. They were obvious. And I knew the reaction if it had been a negative outcome, which is always possible in football.”
“But I am not worrying. I sleep well also on those nights. I have to take decisions in respect of the club and the team. I have to stand by those decisions.”
🚨🚨🎙️| Erik ten Hag on Ronaldo’s departure: “I am not worrying. I sleep well also in those nights. I stand by my decision.” [mu]
— centredevils. (@centredevils) March 4, 2023
When ten Hag joined United, the team was a complete mess. Having three managers last season, the team lacked chemistry and a clear philosophy. He then changed things around, and under him, underperforming players Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Jadon Sancho have all become stars.
He also made some great signings in Lisandro Martinez, Antony, and Casemiro. The team became mentality monsters under him and has been on a tremendous winning streak. They have won the Carabao Cup and will continue to challenge for more trophies, including the FA Cup, Premier League, and Europa League.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo has joined Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr for a big money contract, where he has already hit things off with eight goals in February and won the Player of the Month award.
