Ten Hag Claims Toxic Culture at Manchester United
Source reports published 20 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 10:12 pm AEST
Erik ten Hag stated that Cristiano Ronaldo ‘let the team and let me down’ during his time at Manchester United, citing a ‘toxic culture’ fostered by the club’s leadership. Michael Carrick denies any issues and maintains a positive relationship with the club’s board.
What happened
- Erik ten Hag, former Manchester United manager, asserted that Cristiano Ronaldo ‘let the team and let me down’ during his tenure, attributing the issues to a ‘toxic culture’ within the club.
- Ten Hag explained that Ronaldo’s training habits, specifically his reluctance to fully engage in sessions and his comments about saving his legs, were detrimental to the team’s preparation.
- He also alleged that the United hierarchy failed to uphold promises regarding player signings and disciplinary matters, referencing the sale of Scott McTominay and the lack of support during his time as manager.
- Ten Hag’s comments followed a 30-day suspension and fine for Ronaldo’s departure from the Portuguese national team camp.
- Michael Carrick, the current interim head coach, refuted Ten Hag’s claims, stating he has a ‘really good relationship’ with the club’s board and that there were ‘no issues or problems’ with any of the players.
- Carrick emphasized the importance of winning football games to maintain his position and acknowledged the team’s recent struggles.
- Jason Wilcox, the director of football, and chief executive Omar Berrada were also mentioned in discussions regarding the club’s stability and alignment.
- The Red Devils are currently experiencing a six-game winless streak, and Carrick faces challenges with key absences for their upcoming Champions League match against Como, including injuries and suspensions.
Original reporting
- BBC: Cristiano Ronaldo let Manchester United down, says Erik ten Hag
2026-10-20T12:12:51.199000+00:00 - Guardian: Carrick insists Manchester United board back him after Ten Hag points to ‘toxic culture’
2026-10-20T00:00:00+00:00