Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in the Portugal national team has become a talking point again. Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made it clear that reputation alone should not guarantee the forward a place in the starting lineup.
Ten Hag believes Ronaldo must prove his physical condition and show that he can meet the team’s demands. His comments bring back memories of their difficult relationship at Manchester United.
Ronaldo is now 41 years old. He still wants to play at the highest level, but questions remain about his future with Portugal.
For Ten Hag, the rule is simple. Every player must earn a place through hard work, fitness and performances on the pitch.
Ten Hag Says Ronaldo Must Earn His Place
Ten Hag recently discussed the deanmds facing Ronaldo at international level. He believes the Portugal captain must show that he can still compete at the highest level.
A player’s reputation cannot replace physical fitness or tactical value. If Ronaldo cannot meet those standards, he may have to accept a role on the bench.
Speaking to ESPN NL, Ten Hag explained that fitness plays a major role in football.
“It is simple: if you are not in the best physical condition, whether in the Premier League, the Champions League or with Portugal, you have no chance of success,” Ten Hag said.
His message was clear. Even a player with Ronaldo’s achievements must continue to meet the demands of modern football.
Ten Hag also recalled his first conversations with Ronaldo after taking charge at Manchester United.
Ten Hag Recalls His Difficult Time with Ronaldo at Man Utd
When Ten Hag arrived at Old Trafford, he explained the style of football he wanted Manchester United to play.
However, he also expected every player to follow the team’s physical and tactical demands.
According to Ten Hag, Ronaldo struggled to meet the level of work required by his system.
“When I started working at Manchester United, I explained to Cristiano Ronaldo the style of play we wanted to use. But in the end, you also have to give something… and he no longer had the ability to do the hard work required,” Ten Hag said.
The Dutch coach also explained what he expected from his players.
He wanted them to:
- Push themselves to their limits every day.
- Train at maximum intensity.
- Maintain excellent physical condition.
- Meet the team’s demands during training and matches.
Ten Hag believes these standards apply to everyone. A player’s name or past achievements should not give them special treatment.
Their disagreement at Manchester United remains an important part of the story. His latest comments show that he still stands by his approach to team selection.
Ronaldo’s Future with Portugal Remains Uncertain
Questions about Ronaldo’s international future have also grown following reports of tension during a previous international break.
Reports suggest that his departure from the national team caused problems within the squad. The situation reportedly affected his relationships with teammates, coaching staff and the Portuguese Football Federation.
Ronaldo must also serve a suspension during Portugal’s November fixtures. The ban follows his actions during the previous international period.
However, he will become eligible for selection again during the next international break.
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has also made his position clear. He has publicly stated that the door remains open for Ronaldo.
That message gives the veteran forward a possible route back into the national team. Still, his return will raise questions about the role he can play.
Portugal’s Results Raise Questions About Ronaldo’s Role
Portugal perfect performances without Ronaldo have added another layer to the debate.
The team’s results have led some observers to question how much they need the veteran forward in their current setup.
Ronaldo remains one of the most famous players in football history. However, his place in the team must also fit Portugal’s tactical plans.
Ten Hag’s comments reflect a wider issue in international football. Coaches must balance experience, reputation and current performance when choosing their squads.
For Ronaldo, the challenge is to show that he can still meet Portugal’s expectations.
His experience could remain valuable, but the team must also consider its current form and playing style.
Ronaldo Targets 1,000 Career Goals
While questions surround his Portugal future, Ronaldo has another major target.
The forward wants to reach 1,000 official career goals. He currently has 985 after scoring a hat-trick against Al-Kholood.
That leaves him 15 goals short of the historic milestone.
Ronaldo could reach the target through goals for Al Nassr alone. His focus on this record gives him another major personal goal as his career continues.
The milestone would add another achievement to an already remarkable career.
Ten Hag’s Message Puts the Focus on Performance
Ten Hag’s comments have reopened discussion about his past relationship with Ronaldo. They have also raised questions about the forward’s future with Portugal.
The former Manchester United manager believes no player should receive an automatic place because of reputation.
Ronaldo now faces a challenge to prove his value at international level. Portugal still have the option to welcome him back, but his role will depend on the team’s needs.
For now, the veteran forward has two major talking points in his career: his future with Portugal and his pursuit of 1,000 official goals.
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