‘I sleep well’ after Ronaldo’s Manchester United exit

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag doesn’t seem to stress Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent departure at all.

In a high-profile exit, Ronaldo left the storied English Premier League club to play for Al Nassr of the Saudi Arabian Pro League for a record salary this past November.

In six Saudi Pro League matches, Ronaldo has scored eight goals for Al Nassr, who stand first atop their league table with 46 points.

Even so, ten Hag, who had been critical of Ronaldo prior to his leaving of the club, insists he has no worries over the fallout and aftermath since.

“I had my reasons,” Ten Hag said of Ronaldo’s departure, per ESPN. “They were obvious, and I also knew the consequences. It could have had a negative outcome. That is always possible in football. But I am not worrying. I sleep well also, even during those nights.”

The Man U manager continued: “I have to take decisions in respect of advancing the club and the team. That is my job and that is the responsibility I have — and I have to stand by those decisions. I have to face the consequences and the impact of my decisions, not only in the short term but also for the longer term.”

“Of course, you don’t always have a lot of time. In that period, I remember we had 10 days so I could consider which choice would be the best. You always have to think strategically. But that is my job and that is the responsibility I have to take.”

Ronaldo’s dispute with Manchester United played out publicly in a sit-down interview with Piers Morgan, where he lashed out at the club and ten Hag himself.

Ronaldo cited a lack of respect from his now former club and manager and additionally claimed he was being forced away from the team.

“I don’t have respect for him [Ten Hag] because he doesn’t show respect for me,” said Ronaldo. “If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”

Ronaldo added, “I felt betrayed. I don’t care. People should listen to the truth. Yes, I felt betrayed. I feel that some people didn’t want me here, not only this year but last season too.”

The two sides split up in late November, just as the World Cup was getting underway.

Manchester United, who got crushed by Liverpool 7-0 on Sunday, is third in the Premier League table with 49 points behind only Arsenal and Manchester City, who are ahead of Man U by a distant 14 and nine points, respectively.