An insight into Ralf Rangnick’s response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent troubles in front of goal has been provided.
The striker was brought back to Old Trafford during the summer. But at 36 (now 37), there were reservations over how smart a move that actually was on Manchester United’s part.
For many it was seen as more of a cheap publicity stunt and one that only happened so the Portuguese would not join United’s city rivals.
And, so far, the decision to bring Ronaldo back to Manchester United looks to have been a poor one.
The ageing forward has never been known for his work off the ball, but, if the goals are flowing, teams can make an exception for one top-quality star’s lack of pressing.
Ronaldo, though, is not working hard off the ball and is now also not scoring goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo has failed to score in his last 5️⃣ apps – his worst run without a club goal for over 1️⃣1️⃣ years, since run of 5 at Real Madrid (May-Sept 2010)
No goals in his last 🔟 @premierleague sub apps, since 2 v Wigan in Dec 2006 pic.twitter.com/nbDulMDSmX
— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) February 8, 2022
Ralf Rangnick’s Cristiano Ronaldo reservations
Now, as per the Manchester Evening News, it appears Ralf Rangnick does not believe Ronaldo is up to the job of leading the United line next term.
The MEN report that Rangnick has major reservations about the prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo spearheading Manchester United’s attack next season.
It is added that Rangnick’s patience is wearing thin with Ronaldo. But Rangnick has not entertained the possibility of dropping Ronaldo due to United’s dearth of reliable goalscorers at present.
All of this seems to point towards Manchester United needing a new no.9 in the summer. But given they probably needed one before Ronald signed, have they not just wasted a year on a club legend instead of going out and trying to sign a new forward like Harry Kane? It certainly seems that way.
