Ten Hag Approves Cristiano Ronaldo’s Exit from Manchester United Amid Dressing Room Fallout

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly approved the exit of club legend Cristiano Ronaldo, citing ongoing disciplinary issues and a lack of commitment from the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

According to reports from The Times, Ten Hag has grown increasingly dissatisfied with Ronaldo’s attitude, particularly after the forward pushed for a transfer following the club’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

Ronaldo’s Decline in United’s Peaking Drama

Despite finishing as Manchester United’s top scorer in the 2021/22 season with 18 goals in 30 Premier League appearances, Ronaldo’s off-field demeanor and dissatisfaction with the club’s direction have triggered tensions behind the scenes.

Ten Hag, who initially expressed interest in keeping Ronaldo as part of his rebuild, now appears to have changed his stance, especially after the player skipped the pre-season tour and reportedly refused a handshake following the club’s 4-0 thrashing by Brentford.

“He [Ronaldo] hasn’t shown the right discipline or focus the team needs,” a source close to the Dutch manager told The Times. “It’s no longer about ability, it’s about attitude.”

Potential Exit Destinations | Atletico Madrid in the Picture

With Ronaldo eager to leave and United open to parting ways, Atletico Madrid has surfaced as a possible landing spot.

Diego Simeone is said to view Ronaldo as a short-term solution to replace Luis Suarez, whose contract expired in June.

Talks could involve Álvaro Morata or Antoine Griezmann being offered in exchange. United are reportedly more interested in Morata due to his recent form, including a brace in Atletico’s La Liga opener against Getafe.

Other clubs like Bayern Munich and Chelsea were previously linked but have since cooled their interest.

Cristiano Ronaldo | Commercial Star, Dressing Room Storm

While Ronaldo’s commercial value remains a massive asset, his strained relationship with management and the club’s shift in philosophy under Ten Hag appear to have paved the way for his potential departure.

Whether United’s board supports Ten Hag’s decision remains to be seen, but the Dutchman’s firm stance sends a clear message: no player is bigger than the club.