Graham Potter gives his verdict on Erik ten Hag’s treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo
Chelsea coach Graham Potter has backed Erik ten Hag’s and Manchester United’s treatment of their star player Cristiano Ronaldo. The two sides are set to meet each other later today.
The 37-year-old refused to come on during his side’s 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur earlier this week. If this was not enough, the former Real Madrid star also walked off to the tunnel before the game was even over.
United have axed the player for his behaviour. He has been left out of their squad to face the Blues later today, and that in some sense will be considered a relief by the hosts.
Now, Potter has come in defence of Ten Hag. Speaking to the press as quoted in the Daily Mail, the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager gave his stance on the matter.
“[Ten Hag] has taken his stance and sometimes you have to do that and the club have taken his support.”
“I don’t know the full story so it would be difficult for me to comment fully but from a philosophical perspective sometimes you have to make a decision you think is for the good of the group and the culture and environment you want and there might be a short term consequence and there is a consequence that can come back to you but if you think it is the right thing then you have to do it.”
Ronaldo was linked with a move to the west London club this summer. The Portuguese international wanted to play Champions League football and the Blues were in a position to offer that.
However, despite many rumours and speculation, the 37-year-old failed to get a move and had to stay put at the Red Devils. The Blues, who were in search of a striker this summer signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Barcelona on deadline day.
If he is there in the market in 2023, perhaps it won’t be the worst option in the world for Chelsea to have a look at him. We were, after all, keen to sign him this summer during Thomas Tuchel’s reign only for the German manager to opt against him.
Then again, we have now seen how he tends to act when not played regularly. Hence, not signing him may not be a bad thing as well, considering it could save Potter some potential selection headaches in the future.
More Chelsea News:
- Chelsea join Newcastle United and AC Milan in race to sign Arnaut Danjuma
- Chelsea boss Graham Potter impressed with Trevoh Chalobah and offered verdict on his England chances
- Chelsea are keeping tabs on Juventus and USA international midfielder Weston McKennie
Fans will hope that the Blues continue their unbeaten run of seven games in all competitions. This could prove to be the biggest challenge for Potter so far and a win will likely help the manager in the long run.