Cristiano Ronaldo on Manchester United’s Struggles and Ruben Amorim’s Challenges

As one of the most iconic footballers in history, Cristiano Ronaldo’s opinions on Manchester United—arguably the club that first catapulted him to global stardom—hold immense weight. In recent discussions, Ronaldo has shared his thoughts on the state of Manchester United, the challenges faced by current manager Ruben Amorim, and the deeper issues plaguing the club. His comments offer both a critique and a heartfelt reflection on a team that remains close to his heart.

Ruben Amorim’s Leadership: A Tough Position

Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese manager who took the reins of Manchester United in late 2024, has faced an uphill battle. Despite a string of recent victories, Amorim’s tenure has been marked by inconsistency and underwhelming results, including Manchester United’s worst-ever Premier League finish in the 2024–25 season. Ronaldo has defended Amorim, highlighting that the manager cannot perform miracles. As Ronaldo put it, “Miracles are only in Fatima,” a nod to Portuguese culture and the challenges Amorim faces in rebuilding a struggling squad.

Amorim has been tasked with revitalizing a team that has lost its identity and structure. Despite significant investments in new players, including a summer spending spree of £250 million, the results have been far from transformative. Ronaldo emphasized that while the squad has talent, some players lack the understanding of what it means to represent Manchester United. This disconnect, according to Ronaldo, is a fundamental issue that transcends the manager’s control.

The Structural Problems at Manchester United

Beyond managerial challenges, Ronaldo has pointed to deeper systemic issues within Manchester United. The club, once a powerhouse under Sir Alex Ferguson, has struggled to maintain its legacy in recent years. Ronaldo noted the absence of a clear structure and vision, which he believes is essential for the club’s future success. Reflecting on his own time at United, he recalled the strong foundation built by intelligent leadership and a focus on youth development.

Ronaldo lamented the loss of the “Manchester United spirit,” which he associates with players like Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and David Beckham, who rose through the ranks with a clear understanding of the club’s identity. He urged the current leadership to prioritize long-term planning and structural reform, emphasizing the club’s immense potential as one of the most important in football history.

Ronaldo’s Emotional Connection to Manchester United

Despite his criticisms, Ronaldo’s love for Manchester United remains unwavering. He frequently mentions the club’s special place in his heart, rooted in his early career achievements, including his first Ballon d’Or and Champions League victory. Ronaldo’s two spells at the club, from 2003 to 2009 and then 2021 to 2022, solidified his bond with the Red Devils.

However, his second stint at Old Trafford ended on a sour note. Ronaldo’s explosive interview in 2022, in which he criticized the club’s hierarchy and then-manager Erik ten Hag, led to his departure. Looking back, Ronaldo has expressed sadness over the state of the club but maintains hope for its revival. He continues to follow United’s results, expressing both disappointment and a desire to see the club return to its former glory.

Ronaldo’s Legacy and Future Plans

As Ronaldo approaches the twilight of his illustrious career, he has begun to contemplate retirement. Currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has set a personal goal of reaching 1,000 career goals before hanging up his boots. With 952 goals to his name, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains focused on achieving this milestone.

Ronaldo has openly discussed the emotional challenges of retirement, acknowledging that it will be a difficult transition. However, he believes his careful preparation over the years will help him navigate this new phase of life. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is secure, but his enduring connection to Manchester United ensures that his influence on the club will be felt long after his playing days are over.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s reflections on Manchester United highlight both the challenges and opportunities facing one of football’s most storied clubs. His insights serve as a reminder of the importance of leadership, structure, and identity in achieving lasting success. For Manchester United, the path to revival lies in embracing these principles while honoring the legacy of players like Ronaldo, who have shaped the club’s history.