Ex-Man Utd striker predicts ‘tough’ Ronaldo dilemma for Ten Hag

CR7 was the club’s best outfield player by some distance in 2021/22, but Sheringham still isn’t sure what to expect from the superstar next season.

New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has a ‘tough’ dilemma with Cristiano Ronaldo on his hands, according to Teddy Sheringham.

The former Red Devils striker thinks Ronaldo can help the team next season, but he has raised concerns over how Ten Hag will handle the 37-year-old’s game time and deploy him on the pitch.

Despite a turbulent campaign for United last term, Ronaldo chalked up an impressive 24 goals in all competitions. The forward won the club’s Player of the Year, Goal of the Season, and five Player of the Month prizes. He also bagged two Premier League Player of the Month awards, and made the PFA Team of the Year.

Cristiano Ronaldo's longevity is seriously good.

Less games. Same goals. Same CR7.

From when he left Manchester United in 2009 aged 24 to returning in 2021 aged 36, he hasn't missed a beat.#PL #OptusSport pic.twitter.com/a3mhCfCywY

— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) June 11, 2022

‘It’s hard to find the right balance with him’

But in an interview with the online casino, Lord Ping, Sheringham questioned the role CR7 will have under a different manager.

“A superstar like Ronaldo will demand to play,” said the 56-year-old Englishman.

“Ronaldo has to understand his own body as well and appreciate that he’s not 28 anymore. He’s not at the pinnacle of his career. It’s a tough one because Manchester United fans want to see him out there because he can still produce moments of absolute brilliance.

“Is he going to be perfect for the way Ten Hag wants to play? Ten Hag needs to work that out. He needs to think if Ronaldo will be a help or a hindrance.

“I think he’ll be a help because he’s a world-class player, but he doesn’t have the mobility as much as he used to. I still couldn’t tell you exactly what type of player Ronaldo is.

“He’s not a right-winger anymore. He’s not a number 10. He’s not a center-forward. It’s hard to find the right balance with him.”