Despite a tumultuous exit, Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United in 2021 left a significant mark on the club, according to former assistant coach Mike Phelan. Phelan reflects on how Ronaldo maintained high standards and the challenges that arose during his second spell at Old Trafford.
What Happened?
Ronaldo’s much-anticipated return to Manchester United in 2021 was initially met with enthusiasm, as fans and players alike welcomed back one of the greatest footballers in history. However, the excitement was short-lived. Ronaldo’s second stint at the club was marred by internal disputes, culminating in his departure in November 2022 after a clash with manager Erik ten Hag. The Portuguese superstar publicly claimed he felt “betrayed” by the club, leading to a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.
The Bigger Picture
Ronaldo’s controversial interview with Piers Morgan in November 2022 played a pivotal role in his exit. During this interview, he criticized the club’s lack of progress since the retirement of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013 and suggested that he was being pushed out. Despite the drama surrounding his departure, Ronaldo’s return had a bright start, as he scored an impressive 24 goals in all competitions during his first season back.
Phelan, who had previously worked with Ronaldo when he was just 18 years old, emphasized that Ronaldo’s presence reinvigorated the team. In an interview with The Athletic, he dismissed the notion that Ronaldo had overstepped any boundaries during his second spell, stating that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner set standards that some teammates struggled to meet.
What Phelan Said
Reflecting on Ronaldo’s impact, Phelan remarked, “When Ronaldo returned, the buzz was unreal—supporters, players. What he brought back with him was a different playing style. Ronaldo is a goalscorer. He was driven by his outstanding ability to change a game. Everything was great. And then things change from the point of view of his ambition.”
Phelan further explained his approach to coaching Ronaldo, highlighting that his role was not to improve Ronaldo’s skills but to bolster his already strong mentality. “You didn’t coach Cristiano to be a better player. All I was doing was reinforcing his belief that special players find a way.”
He acknowledged the need to support Ronaldo’s confidence, saying, “I was rubbing his ego a little bit. But he delivered. He was older, wiser, and set high standards—sometimes standards others couldn’t keep to.”
What’s Next for Manchester United?
As Manchester United navigates a new chapter following the recent sacking of Ten Hag, questions remain about how Ronaldo would have reacted to the coaching change, especially given his previous comments about lacking respect for the Dutch manager. United is now poised for a new era under Ruben Amorim, who recently led Sporting CP to a stunning 4-1 victory over United’s rivals, Manchester City, in the Champions League.
Looking Forward
The transition to a new manager presents an opportunity for Manchester United to redefine their identity and approach. As they seek to build a competitive squad, the lessons learned from Ronaldo’s time at the club could prove invaluable. His commitment to excellence and the standards he set may serve as a benchmark for future players and staff.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Cristiano Ronaldo’s time at Manchester United, though fraught with challenges, undeniably left a legacy that will be remembered. His high standards and immense talent set a precedent that influenced his teammates and the club’s culture. As Manchester United moves forward, the impact of Ronaldo’s return will likely resonate, shaping the club’s ambitions and aspirations in the seasons to come.