The Liverpool legend believes signing CR7 by United was not a good idea in the first place.
Jamie Carragher has suggested Manchester United start their new era under Erik ten Hag without Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese superstar became United’s top-scorer in his first season since his sensational move from Juventus. Despite the Red Devils’ terrible form, CR7 rarely showed signs of slowing down throughout the season, scoring more match-winning goals than any other Premier League star.
However, the former Real Madrid star’s style of play has also attracted criticism from observers who believe his defensive work rate is too low.
Carragher believes Ronaldo should not be part of Ten Hag’s squad for his first season at Old Trafford.
“I’m thinking of Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp right now,” the Sky Sports pundit told Gary Neville’s The Overlap.
“When Pep came into Man City he just went, ‘Joe Hart, no.’ And everyone was like, wow this is England’s keeper he’s been a great player for City, but it was like ‘No, you’re not here’.
“When Klopp came into Liverpool, they had brought in players under Brendan Rodgers that summer.
“I think Benteke cost £35-40m, he was a few quid but Klopp said, ‘You’re not for me, out.’ It was like making that big bold decision straight away that makes everyone sit up and take note.
“I’m convinced that Ten Hag has got to do it with Ronaldo, whether he’s allowed to or not. I’ve said this consistently throughout this season: that was not a good signing.”
“He’s always played for great teams”
Carragher has consistently criticized United for their decision to return Ronaldo. The former Liverpool star believes United need fresh blood in their attacking line for the next campaign.
He added: “Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the greatest players of all time and I’m seen as a guy who’s criticising Ronaldo.
“Ronaldo is a million times a better player than I ever was. I am not fit to lace his boots obviously. I’m not saying that to be disrespectful to him – he’s amazing.But Ronaldo has never played in a team this bad.
“He’s always played for great teams. And his attitude of trying to be the main man, driving the team on, getting the goals, when you’re in a great team that is seen as a positive.
“When you’re not playing for a great team it can be seen as a negative. And I think it has been this season. Man United can’t go into next season with a centre-forward who will be 38, even if he does score goals. That’s not right for Man United.”
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