Transfer Centre

Erik ten Hag 'decides to keep hold of Cristiano Ronaldo'

By Matthew Tranter, Reporter | 06 May 2022

Erik ten Hag 'decides to keep hold of Ronaldo'

Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag decides to keep 37-year-old forward Cristiano Ronaldo as part of his plans for next season, according to a report.

Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has decided to keep Cristiano Ronaldo as part of his plans for next season, according to a report.

The Dutchman was appointed as United's new permanent boss from next season after signing a three-year contract back in April, with the option of a further year in the dugout as well.

Ten Hag will be left with a major squad overhaul at Old Trafford, with current interim boss Ralf Rangnick also admitting that the squad needs major work in recent weeks.

With several first-team players set to leave upon the expiration of their contracts in June, one uncertain future is that of Ronaldo, who still has 12 months remaining on the two-year contract that he signed when he returned to the club from Juventus last summer.

However, despite concerns over Ronaldo's ability to adapt to Ten Hag's playing style, the current Ajax manager sees the Portuguese forward as part of his plans, according to a report from The Telegraph.

The report suggests that although the 52-year-old has reservations about Ronaldo's physical limitations at his age, he would like to build his new side around the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Although, it is also outlined how Ronaldo would need to accept that he would not play in every match under the Dutchman, with Ten Hag insisting that rotation would be required.

The former Real Madrid and Juventus forward has scored 18 Premier League goals in 29 league appearances for United this season, with his latest coming from the penalty spot in the 3-0 win over Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday.