Wayne Rooney says Cristiano Ronaldo move has not worked: ‘Man Utd need young and hungry players’

When Ronaldo joined Manchester United, the two proved incredibly successful together, winning three Premier League and Champions League crowns in one season.

Despite the fact that the 37-year-old has scored 18 goals in 32 appearances since his return to Old Trafford, United have had a memorable season.

After a 1-1 tie with Leicester City on Saturday, the squad is out of all tournaments and stands in seventh position in the Premier League.

Rooney was asked if he agreed with another analyst, Jamie Carragher, that Ronaldo’s signing was a mistake during an appearance on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football.

“You have to say no, for now,” Rooney said when asked if it worked.

“At the start of the season, he scored key goals in the Champions League.

“He scored a hat-trick against Tottenham, but I believe that if you want to promote Manchester United in the next two or three years, you have to go with the eager young players.”

“Obviously, Cristiano is improving; he’s no longer the player he was in his twenties, and football is what happened.”

“He’s a goal scorer, but I believe they need more from him in his remaining games.” They need younger, less hungry players, in my opinion.”

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who has been widely questioned about his form this season, also questioned the Derby County boss.

“I adore Harry, and I personally know Harry,” Rooney remarked. “He hasn’t been in great form this season, as have the majority of players.

“Then look at England; you’ll be playing there, and you appear to be a world-class player.”

“I believe a lot of it is confidence; I think the players need to feel like they’re winning again, like they’re always winning, to gain confidence, and I think Harry Maguire is a big part of it.”