“Listen Cristiano, You Are 36” – What Happened Between Ronaldo And Rangnick vs Brentford

Manchester United’s academy graduates Anthony Elanga, Mason Greenwood, and Marcus Rashford all got on the scoresheet to see off Brentford 3-1. But Cristiano Ronaldo couldn’t get himself a goal on his return to the squad.

Once Fred opened the Brentford defence with his beautiful ball for Elanga to nod in the finish, the visitors got several opportunities to score on the break as Thomas Frank’s side moved higher up the pitch to find an equaliser.

United doubled their lead seven minutes later through Greenwood after a smart bit of play from Ronaldo, who set Fernandes through with a pass from his chest. He made no mistake and squared the ball to the Englishman.

The Portugal captain, anticipating more goal-scoring opportunities, was left furious with Ralf Rangnick’s decision to take him off and was even picked up throwing down his coat by cameras.

"Why did he take me off?"

Cristiano Ronaldo was not happy at being withdrawn in the 70th minute with Man Utd 2-0 up against Brentford… pic.twitter.com/gx0uur4GZf

— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) January 19, 2022

 

Rangnick, keen on avoiding his mistake against Aston Villa, switched to a back five by bringing on Harry Maguire to defend their two-goal lead. Few minutes later, the manager was seen sitting beside Ronaldo on the bench and explaining his substitution.

The German also sent a message to his superstar forward during his post-match interview with BBC, saying: “Listen Cristiano, you are 36 in great shape, but when are a head coach, you will see if through the glasses of a head coach. My job is to take the decisions in the best interest of the team and the club and I hope he sees it the same way.”

Rangnick is clearly not afraid to upset the big names at the club, and considering Ronaldo’s age, he might even find himself starting off the bench as the season progresses.