Cristiano Ronaldo ‘blocks Man Utd manager appointment’ and schedules Jorge Mendes talks
According to rumors, Cristiano Ronaldo has told Manchester United’s leadership that he will not allow Ralf Rangnick being the club’s next permanent manager. Since returning from Juventus in the summer, the Portugal international has scored 14 goals in all competitions. With the veteran displeased with the club’s current circumstances, another move from Old Trafford could be on the cards.
Ronaldo was visibly angry after United’s poor 1-1 draw with Burnley on Tuesday night.
In the second half at Turf Moor, the Portugal international came in for Edinson Cavani and rushed off the pitch as soon as the game was finished.
For quite some time, Ronaldo’s rage has been bubbling over at United.
Since he first showed his stuff at Old Trafford during the days when Sir Alex Ferguson controlled the roost, the 37-year-old believes standards have deteriorated.
According to the Daily Star, Ronaldo has stated that he ‘wouldn’t support’ Rangnick being hired on a permanent basis.
The German has stated that he is willing to being United’s next permanent manager, despite having earlier suggested that he stay at RB Leipzig.
However, Ronaldo appears to be dissatisfied with the way the former Schalke and Hoffenheim coach has led the team thus far.
Ronaldo will postpone any decision on his future until the end of the season, when United will pick Rangnick’s replacement.
However, as he mulls about his future, the Portugal international has planned talks with his agent, Jorge Mendes.
Mendes could be tasked with ensuring his client’s departure from United in the near future, especially if the club fails to qualify for the Champions League next season.
MLS clubs could be intrigued, since the veteran has previously refused to rule out playing in the league when questioned about it.
Also linked are Paris Saint-Germain, particularly with Kylian Mbappe seeming increasingly likely to move on a free transfer.
Ronaldo recently discussed his second stint at United, admitting that they should aim for a top-three finish this season.
“When asked if the club could qualify for the Champions League without the right mentality, he replied, “I think it’s impossible.”
“I refuse to believe that our mentality is anything less than being in the Premier League’s top three.
“I believe that in order to develop excellent things, you must sometimes demolish a few things.
“Why not – new year, fresh life, and I believe Manchester (United) can reach the heights that the fans desire.” They are deserving of it.
“We have the ability to change things now. I’m aware of the route, but I’m not going to reveal it here since I don’t believe it’s ethical for me to do so.
“What I can say is that we can all do better. We must modify the fact that Manchester (United) is associated with important things.
“I don’t want to be in sixth, seventh, or fifth position when I get here. I’ve come here to compete and win.
“I believe we compete, but we are not yet at our peak. However, we have a long way to go, and I feel that if we change our minds, we can do great things.”
Meanwhile, Dean Saunders has defended Ronaldo following his outburst against Burnley, saying the veteran was ‘playing with dummies.’
“They should’ve been up 3-0 at one point, they were running away with it,” Saunders remarked.
“Then, as soon as they face difficulties, they appear to regress and crumble.”
“If you asked Ronaldo, ‘Who are the worst midfield players you’ve ever played with in your career?’ he would say, ‘Who are the worst midfield players you’ve ever played with in your career?’ Fred and [Scott] McTominay will be close behind.
“People are pointing fingers at Ronaldo, but he’s playing with a bunch of dummies, some of whom aren’t on his wavelength.”
“Every time the ball was transferred around the box and pressure was applied on Burnley, the ball was going to a really excellent player, to Pogba, Rashford, Lingard, Ronaldo, they’ve had ammo.”
“They have an ordinary back four and no engine room in the center of the pitch, and the players they have in there aren’t up to par.”
