‘If I owned Man United, I’d fix issues’ – claims Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has weighed in on Manchester United’s ongoing struggles, claiming that the club’s problems go far beyond managerial decisions.

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the Al Nassr forward expressed confidence that he could resolve the club’s issues if he were its owner.

Ronaldo dismissed criticism of new manager Ruben Amorim, who has faced pressure after losing five of his first 10 games, including four of the last five in the Premier League.

“The problem is not the coaches,” Ronaldo said. “Manchester United’s issues are much deeper. It’s like an aquarium—if the environment is bad, the fish will always struggle.”

The Portuguese star, who scored 145 goals during two stints at Old Trafford, has been vocal about the club’s shortcomings, particularly under the Glazer family’s ownership.

He reiterated his belief that ownership, not management, is the root of the club’s challenges.

“If I owned the club, I would make things clear and address the problems,” Ronaldo stated, adding that while he has no immediate plans, he aspires to own a “big club” in the future.

Ronaldo also backed Amorim, calling him “fantastic” for his work at Sporting Lisbon.

However, he acknowledged the Premier League’s unparalleled competitiveness, describing it as “the most difficult league in the world.”

Despite his departure from United in 2022 amid controversy, Ronaldo affirmed his enduring affection for the club.

“I hope the best for Manchester United. It’s a club I still love,” he said.

At the event, Ronaldo was honoured as the Best Middle East Player of 2024, capping off a stellar year in Saudi Arabia.