Cristiano Ronaldo can play a key role under new Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, according to Roy Keane and Jamie Redknapp.
Last Monday, Ajax manager ten Hag was named as Ralf Rangnick’s successor at Old Trafford. Despite the fact that Ronaldo is nearing the end of his career, he has still managed to score 23 goals in 36 games across all competitions.
Regardless, some have criticized the 37-year-old’s lack of pressing abilities and argued that Ronaldo obtains good individual goal totals at the expense of the team’s overall cohesion. However, following United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Thursday, in which Ronaldo matched Marcos Alonso’s opener, pundit Keane expressed his conviction that the Portuguese might flourish under the Dutchman.
‘I know people criticize him for his pressing, but he’s never been particularly good at it,’ he remarked. ‘Seeing the opportunities Chelsea was creating, that was essentially his only chance tonight. Imagine how many goals he would score if he were a member of the Chelsea team.’
‘He’s in a bad United team that isn’t creating many chances for him… his touch, his movement, you know it’s going to be a goal when you turn away.’ Brilliant.
‘In terms of objectives, that’s why he returned.’ He’s reliant on receiving balls in the proper spots, which they haven’t done well this year, but he’s still delivered.’ When challenged by fellow commentator Jamie Redknapp about Ten Hag’s plans for Ronaldo when he takes over this summer, the former United captain claimed that Ronaldo’s attacking skill outweighs his lack of pressing ability.
‘If you have a player in the group who can score that many goals, they have to be engaged,’ he added. He’ll want to play every week, which will be an issue. When the manager arrives, Ronaldo will not stay unless he is playing every week.
‘I still believe you can have high-pressing guys and have Ronaldo in your team.’ “What about Liverpool or Manchester City?” some ask, but I believe you can get away with one player not pressing. With (United legend Eric) Cantona, we had it. You forgive them if they produce the products.’
‘Because of his aspirations, you can accept that,’ Redknapp concluded. I’m not seeing enough from the people surrounding him. I don’t see enough wide guys chasing down lost causes and returning as quickly as they can.’